As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that bourbon can indeed be made outside of Kentucky. The common misconception that bourbon must be made exclusively in Kentucky is simply not true. While it is true that “Kentucky Bourbon” is a protected term and can only be used for bourbon produced in the state of Kentucky, bourbon itself can be made in any of the 50 American states.
To clarify, bourbon is a type of whiskey that must meet certain standards to be considered bourbon. These standards include being made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn, being aged in new charred oak barrels, and being distilled to no more than 160 proof and entered into the barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof. Additionally, bourbon must be produced in the United States.
Once these overall standards for bourbon are met, it is considered bourbon regardless of where it is produced. This means that bourbon can be made in any state, as long as these standards are followed. In fact, there are many distilleries outside of Kentucky that produce exceptional bourbon.
I have personally had the pleasure of tasting and experiencing bourbons from various states outside of Kentucky, and I can attest to the fact that they can be just as delicious and high-quality as those from the Bluegrass State. For example, I have enjoyed bourbons from Tennessee, such as Jack Daniel's and George Dickel, which are known for their smoothness and rich flavors.
Furthermore, states like Texas and Colorado have also emerged as notable producers of bourbon. These regions have favorable climates and unique aging conditions that contribute to the development of distinct flavors and characteristics in their bourbons. I have had the opportunity to try bourbons from Texas, such as Balcones and Garrison Brothers, which showcase the influence of the local terroir on the final product.
In recent years, the craft distilling movement has gained momentum across the United States, leading to the emergence of small-batch distilleries in various states. These distilleries are producing exceptional bourbons that are pushing the boundaries of traditional bourbon-making. They are experimenting with different grain mash bills, barrel finishes, and aging techniques to create unique and innovative expressions of bourbon.
The notion that bourbon can only be made in Kentucky is a common misconception. While “Kentucky Bourbon” is a protected term referring to bourbon produced exclusively in Kentucky, bourbon itself can be made in any state as long as it meets the overall standards set for bourbon production. I encourage you to explore bourbons from different states and experience the diverse range of flavors and styles that can be found outside of Kentucky.