The History of Bourbon
Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that is steeped in history and tradition. It is named after Bourbon County, Kentucky, and is known for its distinctive flavour and unique production methods.
Bourbon has its roots in the late 1700s when settlers in Kentucky started distilling whiskey from corn. The whiskey was stored in charred oak barrels, which gave it a distinctive flavour and colour. Over time, bourbon became the drink of choice for many Americans, and by the mid-1800s, bourbon production was booming.
During the Civil War, bourbon was used as a form of currency, as it was easier to transport than coins or paper money. After the war, bourbon production continued to grow, and by the end of the 19th century, there were more than 4,000 distilleries in the United States, many of which were located in Kentucky.
In the early 20th century, the Prohibition movement gained momentum, and in 1919, the sale of alcohol was banned in the United States. This had a significant impact on the bourbon industry, and many distilleries were forced to close. However, a few were able to remain open by producing “medicinal whiskey” for prescription by doctors.
After Prohibition was repealed in 1933, the bourbon industry slowly started to recover. In 1964, Congress passed a resolution declaring bourbon as a “distinctive product of the United States,” and in 1967, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail was established, allowing visitors to tour some of the state’s most famous distilleries.
Today, bourbon continues to be a popular drink, with new distilleries opening and old ones being revitalized. It is exported all over the world, and the bourbon industry is a major contributor to the economy of Kentucky and the United States.
Bourbon is a rich and complex drink with a long and storied history. From its humble beginnings in the late 1700s to its current status as a beloved American icon, bourbon has remained a symbol of tradition, quality, and excellence.