Understanding Bourbon: The Spirit of America

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Bourbon, the esteemed spirit of America. In this article, we delve into the journey of this iconic American whiskey, its distinctive flavor profiles, and how we, The Barrel Tap, bring this immersive experience directly to your doorstep with an impressive selection of bourbons and seamless shipping services.

Bourbon: America's Liquid Gold

"Bourbon is the spirit of America, embodying its rich history, dedication to quality, and of course, the pursuit of good times," said renowned whiskey critic Jim Murray, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of Bourbon.

Bourbon, a type of American whiskey with undeniable character, was born in the rural heartland of Kentucky. This treasured spirit can be produced anywhere in the United States, but it must adhere to stringent criteria to bear the 'Bourbon' label:

1. Made from a grain mix with at least 51% corn.
2. Aged in new, charred oak barrels.
3. Distilled to no more than 160 proof, entered into the barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof, and bottled at 80 proof or more.

Beyond these regulations, Bourbon is a testament to America's vibrant heritage and commitment to fine craftsmanship. Each sip tells a tale of grain and fire, time and patience, intricate blending, and the harmonious dance of rich flavor profiles.

Delving into its history, Bourbon production began in the 18th century, with the first settlers in Kentucky. Using the abundant resources at their disposal, they began converting excess corn crops into whiskey, a valuable commodity that was easier to transport and could be used as currency. The whiskey was stored in charred oak barrels for transport, a process that imbued the spirit with its characteristic caramel color and rich, smoky flavor, leading to the creation of what we now know as Bourbon.

The term 'Bourbon' was first used in the early 19th century and is believed to have been derived from Bourbon County in Kentucky, a major shipping site for distilled spirits heading down the Ohio and Mississippi rivers to New Orleans.

The whiskey-making process was further refined over the years, leading to the guidelines we have today. In 1964, Bourbon was designated as a "distinctive product of the United States" by the U.S. Congress, cementing its status as a national treasure.

The Bourbon industry survived significant trials and tribulations over the years, including the Whiskey Rebellion in the late 18th century, Prohibition in the early 20th century, and numerous wars, but it always bounced back, stronger and more popular than before.

Today, Bourbon is celebrated not just as a spirit, but as a symbol of American perseverance and innovation. Its complex layers of flavor and aroma, ranging from sweet notes of vanilla, caramel, and butterscotch, to spicier undertones of cinnamon and pepper, echo the complexities and richness of the American story itself. Whether enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or as the key ingredient in a classic cocktail like the Old Fashioned or Mint Julep, Bourbon continues to captivate and delight, one sip at a time.

Uncover the Bourbon Selection at The Barrel Tap

In today's world, the popularity of Bourbon has soared, crossing geographical boundaries and permeating various cultures. At The Barrel Tap, we're proud to participate in this global Bourbon journey.

As a premier online liquor store, we're dedicated to delivering exclusive, carefully selected Bourbon right to your doorstep. We leverage our vast network and in-depth understanding of Bourbon logistics to ensure each bottle reaches you safely, securely, and in pristine condition.

Embark on a Bourbon adventure through our carefully curated Bourbon collection, promising a tantalizing taste journey. Whether you're hunting for the legendary Pappy Van Winkle, or captivated by our elusive Rare collection, we cater to every Bourbon enthusiast's desires.

Americana Treasure: The Most Popular Bourbons

Explore the exquisite world of Bourbon with our and other enthusiasts top selections:

• Blanton's Bourbon: A pioneer in the single barrel bourbon world, revered for its rich, spicy flavors and a smooth finish.
• Buffalo Trace Bourbon: Symbolizes the tradition and passion from the esteemed Buffalo Trace Distillery.
• Woodford Reserve Bourbon: A world-renowned bourbon that combines tradition with a high-rye recipe. Check out our exclusive Woodford Reserve Barrel Pick.
• Weller Antique 107: A full-bodied bourbon provides a complex taste and bold finish. One of, if not, the most sought-after Weller expression.
• Eagle Rare Bourbon: A sublime bourbon with a complex aroma of vanilla, toffee, and candied fruit.
• Four Roses Bourbon: Known for its symphony of rich plum and cherry notes accentuated by a creamy, smooth finish.
• Basil Hayden's Bourbon: A light-bodied, incredibly smooth introduction to the world of bourbon.
• Wild Turkey 101: A classic representation of bourbon flavors, packing a punch with its high proof and full-bodied flavor.
• Angel's Envy Bourbon: Unique and sweet, this bourbon is finished in port wine barrels, an adventure in every sip.
• 1792 Small Batch Bourbon: Celebrating the year Kentucky joined the United States, 1792 offers a well-balanced bourbon with notes of toasted oak and fruit.
• Larceny Small Batch Bourbon: Smooth and sweet, Larceny is perfect for bourbon lovers and newcomers alike.

... and many more premium selections. Don't miss our exclusive Bourbon bundles which offer an array of the best bourbons bundled together.

Buffalo Trace: One of America's Favorite Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery has become a cherished favorite amongst us here at, The Barrel Tap, due to their commitment to craftsmanship, exceptional whiskey, and sense of community.

Established in 1792, Buffalo Trace is one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the U.S., earning a special place in the hearts of whiskey lovers.The distillery's dedication to traditional craftsmanship is evident in its production methods, including copper pot stills and charred oak barrel aging, resulting in exceptional quality whiskies. The distillery's commitment to innovation is seen in its regular release of limited-edition expressions and unique experiments, keeping enthusiasts excited for what's to come. Buffalo Trace's sense of community is fostered through welcoming visitors and guided tours, creating lasting connections with whiskey enthusiasts.

In summary, Buffalo Trace Distillery's rich heritage have made it a beloved favorite for not only us, but most of the country, with enduring legacy and continuous dedication to excellence.

Budget-Friendly Bourbon and Starting Your Collection

Exceptional bourbon doesn't always come with a hefty price tag. We've curated some of the best affordable bourbons for both the novice and the experienced bourbon lover.

Are you ready to start your own bourbon collection? It's easier than you might think! Our 3 expert tips are here to guide you on your journey.

A Deep Dive into Bourbon

Our passion for bourbon doesn't stop at the bottle. We're constantly sharing our knowledge and the latest news in the world of bourbon through our blogs. Here are some of the recent articles we've shared:

• The recent release of the Kentucky Owl Maighstir Edition, a testament to Kentucky's rich bourbon heritage.
• The introduction of the Fox Oden Double Oaked Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a new player offering unique flavor profiles.
• The launch of Garrison Brothers Lady Bird Bourbon Whiskey, which has quickly become a bourbon lover's favorite.

Beyond Bourbon: Embracing American Whiskey

American Whiskey is a vibrant category, encompassing a variety of styles reflecting America's diverse climates and regions. The term American Whiskey refers to any whiskey type produced in the U.S, but it's more than just Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey.

Outstanding single malt whiskies have emerged from distilleries across the nation, challenging their Scottish counterparts with their quality and complexity. Grain whiskies, too, have made their mark, highlighting the unique characteristics of corn, wheat, rye, and barley.

In the Pacific Northwest, you'll find whiskies with a bold, innovative spirit. There, distillers take advantage of the rich variety of local grains, along with the region's unique climate, to create whiskies with a distinct sense of place.

Our American Whiskey collection at The Barrel Tap is a testament to this variety, showcasing the diverse expressions of whiskey that the U.S has to offer. As you explore these offerings, you're bound to discover new favorites while deepening your appreciation for American distilling.

One particularly captivating variant is Rye Whiskey. Rye, a grain that imparts a spicy or fruity flavor to the whiskey, was the prevalent grain for whiskey production in the northeastern states, particularly Pennsylvania and Maryland, in the late 18th century. In fact, Rye Whiskey was so popular that George Washington himself distilled it at his Mount Vernon property.

Though Rye Whiskey production dwindled after Prohibition, it has recently seen a resurgence in popularity. Our curated collection of Rye Whiskeys at The Barrel Tap showcases the rich diversity of this spirit. From robust, spicy varieties to more mellow, refined offerings, Rye Whiskey provides a bold and rewarding experience to those looking to expand their whiskey horizons. So, whether you're a Bourbon enthusiast looking to delve into new territories, or a whiskey connoisseur seeking out exciting and varied taste experiences, American and Rye Whiskeys offer a thrilling adventure into the wide world of U.S. spirits.

The Final Sip: Savoring the All-American Legacy of Bourbon

So, whether you're a Bourbon aficionado or just starting your whiskey journey, The Barrel Tap is your trusted companion. Explore our collections, discover new favorites, and let us bring the magic of Bourbon and American Whiskey right to your doorstep. After all, in the words of late Booker Noe, Jim Beam’s grandson, "Drink bourbon, be happy". Cheers!