Bourbon 101: How to Sound Like a Pro at Your Next Gathering
You’ve been invited to a get-together and someone offers you bourbon. Suddenly, people are swirling glasses and throwing around words like “mash bill” and “single barrel.” You nod politely, but deep down you’re wondering if “mash bill” is a drink recipe or a country singer.
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. At Jimmie’s, we love bourbon. Not just because it’s delicious (though that’s a strong reason), but because bourbon has a history, character, and culture that makes it one of America’s proudest spirits. Here’s your crash course in sounding like a pro—without needing to grow a mustache and lecture your friends at parties.
All bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. To officially earn the name, it has to meet a few standards:
Made in the United States (Kentucky may get the glory, but bourbon can come from anywhere).
At least 51% corn in the mash bill—the recipe of grains used.
Aged in new charred oak barrels.
Distilled to no more than 160 proof and bottled at no less than 80 proof.
In short, bourbon is whiskey’s slightly sweeter, smoother cousin—thanks to all that corn.
If you want to impress your friends without sounding like a snob, drop these into the conversation:
Mash Bill – The grain recipe, typically corn, rye, barley, and sometimes wheat.
Small Batch – Bourbon blended from a select group of barrels.
Single Barrel – Each bottle comes from just one barrel, so flavors vary.
Proof – Double the alcohol percentage (100 proof = 50% alcohol).
Finish – The lingering flavors after a sip—oak, spice, vanilla, caramel, you name it.
Here’s the good news: there’s no wrong way to enjoy bourbon. Drink it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail—whatever you like best. But if you want to taste like a pro, try this simple routine:
Look at the color. Darker usually means longer aging.
Smell gently—vanilla, caramel, and spice are common notes.
Sip slowly, letting it coat your tongue.
Notice the finish. That’s where the magic lingers.
Then, repeat as necessary (because, let’s be honest, that’s the fun part).
At the end of the day, bourbon isn’t about rules—it’s about enjoying good drinks and good company. Whether you’re sipping Buffalo Trace, hunting for a rare bottle, or mixing an Old Fashioned, bourbon is meant to be shared, not stressed over.
So next time you’re at a party, you can smile, sip, and casually say: “I’ve really been into small batch bourbons lately.” Just like that, you’re the pro in the room.
Stop by Jimmie’s to check out our bourbon selection—we’ve got everything from everyday sippers to bottles worth saving. Just don’t be surprised if your friends start calling you the “bourbon guy” from now on.
