6 OF THE BEST BOURBONS THAT AREN’T FROM KENTUCKY

Bourbon has a litany of rules that define it. It must be made from at least 51% corn. It must be aged in new, charred oak. It must be higher than 40% ABV and lower than 80%. There are several other standards as defined by U.S. regulations.

One rule that does not apply to bourbon is that it must be made in Kentucky. This is often misunderstood—even vehemently argued—by drinkers who haven’t yet learned the rules, but the fact is that bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States, and only in the United States. While Kentucky has been bourbon’s spiritual home for centuries—and remains the leader in bourbon production by a country mile—there are now stellar bourbons coming from every state in the Union. These are some of the best bourbons that are made outside Kentucky.

Treaty Oak Ghost Hill Texas Bourbon—87 points, $50
This wheated Texas bourbon is made from local heirloom grains in the state’s Hill Country, whose hot, arid climate naturally accelerates maturation. The nose offers sweet corn, bubblegum, bananas, and fresh flowers. The palate leans toward stone fruit and melon, with herbal and spicy notes—parsley, star anise, and white pepper. You’d swear there are some botanicals in there, but, no—as with all bourbons, the flavors come only from the grain, yeast, barrel, and time.

Written by Aaron Goldfarb

Original article from Whiskey Advocate