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What is bourbon, really? The no-snob guide to America’s native spirit

Ahead of National Bourbon Day on June 14, interest in America's native spirit is surging, with the category posting $5.1 billion in sales in 2025, the most resilient major spirits category that year.
Kentucky distillers, responsible for roughly 95% of the world's supply, are aging 17.1 million barrels as federal regulations require bourbon to contain at least 51% corn and be bottled at a minimum of 80 proof.
Maker's Mark from Loretto, Kentucky, benchmarks wheated bourbon, while Wild Turkey 101 and Buffalo Trace exemplify high-rye styles; Elijah Craig Small Batch from Bardstown draws from barrels aged between 8 and 12 years.
As 76% of drinkers prioritize memorable drink experiences, bourbon's profile remains robust in cocktails; a grapefruit-forward mix with 2 oz of bourbon, 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice and half an ounce of honey syrup exemplifies its versatility.
Bourbon's reach extends beyond Kentucky, with producers in New York, Texas, and Colorado creating legally compliant spirits as consumers increasingly find this American spirit more approachable than previously assumed.

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What is bourbon, really? The no-snob guide to America’s native spirit

National Bourbon Day on June 14 is the most visible moment in a sustained surge of interest from drinkers who have never considered whiskey their ... Read moreThe post What is bourbon, really? The no-snob guide to America’s native spirit…

5 days ago·Cherokee County, United States

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