Bourbon Knowledge
Learn everything you need to know about bourbon
Types of Bourbon
Wheated Bourbon
A softer, smoother bourbon where wheat replaces rye in the mash bill.
Characteristics
Smooth, sweet, creamy texture
Flavor Profile
Vanilla, caramel, toffee, wheat bread
Examples
Maker's Mark, Woodford Reserve
Best For: Those new to bourbon or preferring softer drinks
High Rye Bourbon
A spicier bourbon with rye making up a significant portion of the mash bill.
Characteristics
Spicy, complex, more grip on the palate
Flavor Profile
Cinnamon, pepper, spice, oak
Examples
Four Roses, Bulleit
Best For: Those who enjoy bold, spicy notes
Wheaty Low Rye
Balanced bourbon with wheat but minimal rye, striking a middle ground.
Characteristics
Balanced sweetness with subtle complexity
Flavor Profile
Honey, oak, subtle spice
Examples
Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare
Best For: Balanced palates seeking versatility
Barrel Proof / Cask Strength
Bourbon bottled at its natural barrel proof without dilution.
Characteristics
Rich, intense, full-bodied, complex
Flavor Profile
Intense oak, spice, depth, burn
Examples
Stagg Jr, Four Roses Limited Edition
Best For: Experienced bourbon drinkers seeking intensity
Single Barrel Bourbons
Bourbon from a single barrel, unique and non-chill filtered.
Characteristics
Unique per barrel, complex, rich
Flavor Profile
Varies significantly by barrel
Examples
Buffalo Trace Single Barrel, Four Roses Single Barrel
Best For: Connoisseurs seeking unique experiences
Finished Bourbons
Bourbon finished in secondary casks (rum, wine, etc.) for added complexity.
Characteristics
Added complexity from secondary barrel
Flavor Profile
Original profile + secondary cask influence
Examples
Wilderness Trail Expedition, Heaven's Door
Best For: Those seeking unique flavor combinations
How to Taste Bourbon
Tasting bourbon is an art form that engages all your senses. Whether you're at a 801 Bourbon Club tasting or enjoying bourbon at home, follow these steps to get the most out of your experience.
Appearance
Hold the glass up to light. Note the color and clarity.
Nosing
Bring the glass close to your nose. Take short sniffs. Note the aromas.
Palate
Take a small sip. Let it coat your mouth. Identify flavors.
Finish
Note how the bourbon finishes - how long does it linger?
Water Addition
Add a few drops of water to open up the bourbon.
Pro Tips
- ✓ Use a tulip-shaped glass to concentrate aromas
- ✓ Taste at room temperature for best results
- ✓ Cleanse your palate with water between tastings
- ✓ Don't rush - take your time to explore the flavors
- ✓ Trust your own palate - there's no "wrong" answer
- ✓ Keep notes of bourbons you enjoy
- ✓ Share your thoughts with other members
Common Tasting Notes
Here are some common flavor notes you might encounter when tasting bourbon. Use these as a starting point to develop your own tasting vocabulary.
Sweet Notes
Vanilla, caramel, toffee, honey, maple, brown sugar
Spicy Notes
Cinnamon, pepper, clove, nutmeg, ginger, allspice
Fruit Notes
Cherry, orange, apricot, plum, apple, banana
Wood Notes
Oak, cedar, pine, smoke, tobacco, leather
Baking Notes
Bread, biscuit, pastry, cake, cocoa, chocolate
Texture Notes
Smooth, creamy, dry, warming, burning, peppery