Biggest bourbon myths

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Bourbon craze sweeping the nation makes room for other whiskey varieties

Bourbon is undeniably on a major roll. Over the last few years, sales of the whiskey have shot up around the world. While we love that bars and stores now boast big selections of the spirit, we still hear plenty of misinformation about the liquor.

So to set the record straight, we’ve debunked some of the most common bourbon myths. Cheers!

1. Jack Daniel's is bourbon.

(Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey)

The spirit is a Tennessee whiskey, not a bourbon. What’s the difference? Jack Daniel’s goes through a special charcoal-filtering process before it’s put into barrels.

2. All bourbon is made in Kentucky.

Whisky barrels on racks in the barrel house (iStock)

While most bourbon comes from the Bluegrass State (according to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, 95 percent of the planet’s supply is born there), by law the alcohol can be distilled anywhere in the United States.

3. Older bourbon is better.

Alcoholic Amber Whiskey Bourbon in a Glass with Ice (iStock)

Nearly every week, we’re asked about super-premium and super-old bourbons such as Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 23 Years Old. Older bourbon isn’t necessarily better: If the spirit spends too long in a barrel, all you’ll taste is the wood.

4. You can't add ice and mixers.

(iStock)

If you want to add ice, use a jumbo cube that chills thoroughly but melts slowly. Bourbon is also, of course, delicious in cocktails. We particularly like it in a simple and refreshing Presbyterian and the classic mint julep.

Check out more bourbon myths debunked.

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