Bourbon: America’s Native Spirit

Rich, complex, and unmistakably bold — Bourbon is more than a drink; it’s a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and flavour that has travelled from the rolling hills of Kentucky to glasses around the world.

What Makes Bourbon Unique?

Not all whiskey is Bourbon, but every Bourbon is whiskey. Bourbon is a distinctly American whiskey, legally defined by strict standards. To be called Bourbon, the spirit must be:

• Made in the United States

• Distilled from at least 51% corn

• Aged in new, charred oak barrels

• Bottled at no less than 40% ABV

These rules shape its signature style — rich caramel notes, vanilla warmth, and a lingering oak spice. It’s this balance of sweetness and depth that makes Bourbon a favourite for both sipping neat and mixing into classic cocktails.

How is Bourbon made?

The process begins with a mash bill — a mix of grains that always includes a majority of corn, often balanced with rye, barley, or wheat. Fermentation, distillation, and maturation in charred oak casks transform this simple mash into a whiskey brimming with character. Time in the barrel deepens its amber colour and enriches the flavour, making age statements and barrel types key markers of quality and style.

What does Bourbon taste like?

While every distillery crafts its own signature profile, Bourbon is often described as:

Nose: Sweet notes of caramel, vanilla, and honey, often lifted with spice.
Palate: Rich and full-bodied, with flavours ranging from toffee and dried fruits to pepper, cinnamon, and tobacco.
Finish: Lingering warmth, sometimes smooth and creamy, sometimes bold and spicy.

What food pairs well with Bourbon?

Bourbon’s depth makes it versatile for pairing. Some of the best matches include:

BBQ and Smoked Meats: Ribs, brisket, or pulled pork amplify the smoky notes.
Rich Cheeses: Blue cheese or aged cheddar cut through the sweetness.
Chocolate Desserts: Dark chocolate, pecan pie, or chocolate tart highlight Bourbon’s natural richness.

How should you drink Bourbon?

There’s no single “right” way — but a few approaches bring out its best:

• Neat: Enjoyed straight, often in a Glencairn or rocks glass.

• With Water: A splash opens up hidden aromas and softens the palate.

• On the Rocks: Ice tempers the warmth and makes sipping refreshing.

• Cocktails: Classics like the Old Fashioned, Mint Julep, or Manhattan showcase Bourbon’s versatility.

Best Bourbon cocktails to try

If you’re looking to shake or stir, these timeless serves are the perfect place to start:

• Old Fashioned — Bourbon, sugar, bitters, orange peel.

• Mint Julep — Bourbon, mint, sugar, crushed ice; a Southern tradition.

• Whiskey Sour — Bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white (optional).

• Manhattan — Bourbon, sweet vermouth, bitters, cherry garnish.

Is all Bourbon from Kentucky?

Not all Bourbon is made in Kentucky, but around 95% of the world’s Bourbon still comes from the state. Kentucky’s limestone-rich water and seasonal climate create ideal conditions for distilling and aging — which is why names like Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, and Maker’s Mark are so synonymous with quality Bourbon.

Explore our Bourbon collection

From cult bottles to under-the-radar favourites, explore our curated Bourbon range — available for delivery Australia-wide and same-day across Sydney metro. Whether you’re building a home bar or searching for a rare gift, you’ll find bottles worth savouring.

Shop Bourbon at Kent Street Cellars