American Whiskey

It is whiskey made exclusively in the USA. Unlike whiskies from the rest of the world (which are mostly made of barley), the main ingredient in this kind of whiskey is corn. Its percentage of participation in the production must be at least 51%. American whiskey is aged in new oak barrels, which have previously been charred internally. In contrast, whiskeys from the rest of the world are aged in used casks, which have previously been used for fortified wine or… American whiskey aging.

We start with Elijah Craig, continue with Jim Beam and Jack Daniel's, and end up with Michter's.

Certainly not just one. Wild Turkey 101, Woodford Reserve, Four Roses Single Barrel, Buffalo Trace, Bulleit Straight and Knob Creek are a good start.

Due to the significant participation of corn in the production, American whiskeys have a sweeter taste compared to other whiskies. Also, due to the cask roasting, these whiskeys have a strong element of vanilla, leather, coffee, chocolate, spices and, of course, smoked wood.

Of greatest importance is the degree of the barrel charring. There are four levels of this process: 15, 30, 35 and 55 seconds of flame exposure. As the burn intensifies, we move from notes of vanilla, cinnamon and wood to notes of coffee, bitter chocolate and pepper.

It's not just one. Maker's Mark, Wild Turkey 101 and Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond are must-haves for every bar. More sophisticated are Jim Beam Single Barrel, Michter's Small Batch and Jack Daniel's Single Barrel.

Some of the most famous are: James B. Beam Distilling Co., Wild Turkey Distillery, Four Roses Distillery, Jack Daniel Distillery and Woodford Distillery.