Bourbon Whiskey

Bourbon is a distinctly American style of whiskey, legally defined and celebrated for its rich, sweet character. To be called bourbon, it must meet specific criteria: it must be made in the United States, distilled from a mash containing at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels, and bottled at a minimum of 40% ABV. While it’s closely associated with Kentucky—which produces about 95% of the world’s supply—it can be made anywhere in the U.S..

The high corn content gives bourbon its signature sweetness, often complemented by flavours of vanilla, caramel, oak, and spice from the charred barrels. Unlike some other whiskies, bourbon cannot contain any additives—only water may be added to adjust proof.

There’s no minimum ageing requirement, but to be labelled straight bourbon, it must be aged at least two years, and if under four, the age must be stated on the label.

American whiskey comes in several distinct styles, each defined by its grain composition and production method. Bourbon is made from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels, giving it a rich, sweet flavour with notes of vanilla and caramel. Rye whiskey, made from at least 51% rye grain, is known for its bold, spicy character with hints of pepper and herbs. Tennessee whiskey follows similar rules to bourbon but undergoes charcoal filtering—known as the Lincoln County Process—for a smoother finish. Corn whiskey uses at least 80% corn and is often unaged or aged in used barrels, resulting in a lighter, sweeter spirit. Finally, wheat and malt whiskeys, though less common, use wheat or malted barley as the dominant grain, offering softer, nuttier profiles. Each type contributes to the rich diversity of American whiskey, reflecting regional traditions and evolving tastes.

There are few beverages in the world with as rich a heritage and diverse a background as whisky. Our range includes Scotch whisky (both blended and single malt varieties, of course), Irish whiskey, American whiskey, Japanese whisky and a host of other whiskies from around the globe. Knowing how varied each country of origin is, we’ve made it our mission to stock a full range of exquisite flavours from around the world, with tasting notes as individual as the locations they’re from.

Drink Finder is a family-run business with over 60 years of experience as an alcohol retailer. Today, our collection spans an eclectic mix of whisky, wines, spirits, gin, rum, and much more. Our catalogue includes popular brands and rare varieties alike, giving us one of the largest collections of alcoholic beverages in South West England. It doesn’t end there, though; at the heart of Drink Finder is people with a passion for what we do. If you’re looking for recommendations, we’d love to share our expertise with you and help you make the right choice, so get in touch today for expert advice on our exciting range.