It appears to be the new ‘sexy’ drink of choice. Discover these 10 Black-owned bourbon and whiskey brands.
History Of Whiskey
But, first let’s start from the beginning. Whiskey is a spirit, rich in history and culture. In case you didn’t know, it is made from a grain, then fermented, distilled and then aged in a bottle. And Whiskey is typically has a higher potency than other spirits — often times around 130 proof or 65% alcohol volume. Whiskey is aged in wooden barrels, typically made of oak. It’s known for its caramel and vanilla notes and flavors, as well as the woody and warm flavors that are common in whiskey. The word “whiskey” comes from the Irish word “uisce beatha” and the Scottish “uisge beatha,” which mean “water of life.”
There are several types of whiskey. In fact, according to the Scotch Whisky Association, 43 bottles of Scotch Whisky are shipped from Scotland to over 160 markets around the world each second. And if you were to lay these bottles out end to end, they would stretch more than 11 times around the Earth!
Bourbon Rules
If you were to characterize spirits, you could say Whiskey is the father to Bourbon. It is a type of Whiskey. This is another spirit that gets alot of attention in the United States. Bourbon is recognized as a very distinctive product of the U.S., so much so it has specific legal requirements just to produce. It must be made from a mash bill (recipe) that consists of at least 51% corn, and it must be aged in new charred oak barrels.
While bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States, its home is Kentucky where most of the bourbon distilleries are. Bourbon packs a pretty powerful punch. It is typically distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol volume. It’s placed into the barrel for aging at no more than 25 proof (62.5%). We don’t know exactly where Bourbon got its name, but many believe it’s named after Bourbon County, Kentucky or Bourbon Street in New Orleans.
Regardless, not many can argue both Whiskey and Bourbon have grown in popularity and on an international level. Most enthusiasts enjoy it’s tastes, flavor and cultural roots. And to its credit, there are several health benefits to drinking Whiskey, too like potentially reducing the risk of heart disease. That is, of course when Whiskey or Bourbon are consumed in moderation.
You can’t mention widespread popularity and history without mentioning the diversity that these two spirits have ignited. There are a number of Black entrepreneurs who have carved their niche in the industry. These distilleries also have their own tastes, innovation and refinement in producing Whiskey and Bourbon. Check out some of the best Black-owned bourbon and whiskey brands that you should not overlook.
