In the U-S of A, there was a celebration coined in August (but celebrated in September) of 2007 - declared by the US Senate - that has the country celebrate bourbon.
"National Bourbon Heritage Month", was sponsored by Republican Senator Jim Bunning of Kentucky, and the bill was passed by unanimous consent. The bill called for lovers of bourbon to rise across the nation and enjoy the whiskey responsibly in celebration of their great country.
Bourbon was enthroned as "America's Native Spirit" in 1964 as an act of congress. It was cheered on by the masses for the family heritage, tradition and deep-rooted legacy that the bourbon industry contributed.
Now, while you may not be able to claim any relation to the nation of America, what's to say you can't celebrate with them? We've got some of the best bourbons around to chug - we mean drink responsibly - and wave your flag.
Apparently great to pair with beer - Jim Beam
Jim Beam White Label is the original formula that put Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey on the map, distilled to precisely 62.5% abv and aged for up to four years to mature a full-body and fiery smoothness.
The nose starts with sweet notes of vanilla and earthy hay, freshly cut grass, essential prairie romance. The palate brings some pretty substantial body, a core of toasted oak, vanilla notes and sweet cream with pepper. The finish is woody, a bit resiny, with a final note of sweetness. Have a tipple.
The best kentucky bourbon - Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve is a small batch Kentucky Bourbon, award-winning because of its unique style and flavour. Peaking at 90.4%, this honey amber elixir has a nose of rich, syrupy dried fruit, with hints of mint and oranges and bittersweet cocoa.
The palate is a rich combination of citrus, cinnamon and cocoa, complemented by toffee, buttery caramel and several spicy notes. The silky smooth finish is warm and fantastic, really wrapping up a unique sipping experience. Maybe you could give this one a try?
One of the best sipping bourbons - Wild Turkey
Wild Turkey 81 Proof Bourbon packs the same incredible depth and body as the original, but with a lower abv, for a touch less intensity. This high rye bourbon is rich and spicy in the nose, notes of grains and fragrant coffee, while the palate begins with caramel and buttery toffee, sweet honey and fudge, creamy custard and tart raspberries. The finish is sweet and lasting, leaving a memorable impression
The finish is sweet and lasting, leaving a memorable impression.
For those that love an Old Fashioned - Maker's Mark
Maker's Mark 46 Kentucky Bourbon Whisky is the longer-aged companion to the original Maker's Mark formula, specially matured to bring about more intense flavours of the vanilla and caramel that make aged bourbon whiskies so distinctive.
The '46' in Maker's Mark 46 Kentucky Bourbon Whisky comes from the number of different wood combinations the brand tried before settling on seared French oak staves, specially treated to lock in the tannins that would otherwise bring about bitterness. Bottled at a mellow 47% ABV, Maker's Mark 46 Kentucky Bourbon Whisky is one fantastic formula, sweet and satisfying with a nose of smoky aromatic spices. On the palate, the vanilla notes play out even further, accented by cardamom and just the right amount of oakiness to complement a soft burn.
Something a little more expensive? Elijah Craig
From distillers Elijah Craig comes this superb cask strength Kentucky bourbon. Designed to be distilled in small batches, this whiskey is packed full of rich, aromatic flavours. With a palate lead of drying oak followed by browning apples and orange peel, this great-tasting spirit also has hints of rye spice and cinnamon.
With wafts of vanilla and maple butter aromas, this is a whiskey perfect for enjoying on a cool autumnal evening. With a hefty 62.1% ABV, this is a whiskey designed to be savoured slowly. Enjoy on its own with a splash of water to bring out its smooth nature. Accompanying slippers and crackling fire optional.
A bourbon for every occasion
Even if you don't want to celebrate bourbon heritage month, you could still try a new bourbon. You can always take a look at the range we have on offer for your next gathering, or to store nicely in your alcohol cupboard.