Back in 2021, there was a sudden rise in the popularity of bourbon. New distilleries opened every month. Many more people tried bourbon for the first time. However, with the increase in popularity came many incorrect myths about bourbon. This happened for several reasons, but the why isn’t essential at this point. The truth is, these myths might ruin someone’s perception of bourbon and lead to disappointment. So, today we’ve decided it’s about time to bust some of these myths and set the record straight. To do that, we’ve compiled a list of the biggest myths about bourbon you shouldn’t believe.

Bourbon is the same as all whiskey

The first of the biggest myths about bourbon, which is blatantly incorrect, is that bourbon is the same as all other whiskeys. Now, true, every bourbon is a whiskey, but there are a lot of different kinds of whiskey which are much different from bourbon. Classic whiskey is strictly distilling from grain at temperatures lower than 190 proof. Bourbon’s process is different, and many other types of whiskey have their own specific process. So, all bourbon is whiskey, but not every whiskey is like bourbon. While bourbon is the reason distillery tourism is on the rise, everyone who enjoys bourbon should at least try other kinds of whiskey. After all, variety is the spice of life, and the same applies to whiskey. So, if you’re a fan of bourbon, consider paying a visit to other kinds of distilleries as well.

Bourbon is only made in Kentucky

Next up on the list of biggest myths about bourbon you shouldn’t believe is the belief that real bourbon is only made in Kentucky. It’s true most bourbon is made in Kentucky. There are distilleries in other states. The only law relevant to this states bourbon is considered original as long as it’s made in the States. So, while you can find most distilleries in Kentucky, bourbon lovers from all over have been flocking there, not all of them are in the Bluegrass State. However, if you want to move to Kentucky to possibly start your distillery, make sure you hire reliable movers. State-to-state moving is complicated. So, suppose you’re moving in from Virginia, for example. To reach Kentucky stress-free, use reliable and experienced interstate movers. This is even more important if you’re bringing barrels with you.

You can use bourbon barrels to age more bourbon

The simplest way to disprove this myth is to look at the regulations involved with making it. Distilleries aren’t allowed to use the same barrel twice because it leads to different bourbon qualities. This is because the chemicals involved in the process get spent, so you can’t use the same barrel twice to reach the same results. That said, barrels used to age bourbon can still be used to age classic whiskey, Scotch, and beer. So, the barrels don’t go to waste after they’re done with bourbon. If you’re curious about the details of the distilling process and why precisely the barrels can’t be used twice, consider a trip to one of the Kentucky distilleries every bourbon lover should visit. Most of them let you witness the distilling process while sampling some of their bourbons. Some of them even let you try your hand at bottling bourbon.

You can age bourbon in a bottle

Another myth that is a blatant lie is that you can age bourbon in a bottle. Unlike wine, bourbon relies on specific chemical reactions which happen when it’s placed in a charred oak barrel in order to age. As such, when bottled up, bourbon no longer ages. If you notice a change in the taste of your bourbon after some time, it’s likely because of oxidization. So, remember: once bourbon is out of the barrel, it no longer ages. It is not possible to purposefully age bourbon in bottles. Anyone claiming this is either ignorant or lying to you. And when it comes to sampling bourbon, you can’t go wrong with paying a visit to Kentucky and its many bourbon distilleries. As a matter of fact, experts from Beltway Movers note that many of their clients have been moving to Kentucky because of their love for bourbon.

The older the bourbon, the better

Age is undoubtedly a factor in bourbon quality, but it’s to the be-all, end-all. This is because bourbon absorbs the flavors of the charred oak barrels it’s in while aging. And this is usually a good thing. Otherwise, aging bourbon in these barrels wouldn’t be a common practice. However, if left for too long, aging bourbon can have the opposite effect, instead worsening the quality. This is because the bourbon can become bitter, woody, and dry, which makes the taste much worse.

All in all, it takes a lot of care not to ruin a batch of bourbon by aging it for too long, which is why only the best distilleries tend to survive. And when it comes to the bourbon itself, you should consider the healthy reasons you should be drinking bourbon. That said, be careful not to overdo it because it’s still alcohol we’re talking about.

Biggest myths about bourbon you shouldn’t believe – wrap up

With bourbon’s rise in popularity not so long ago came many untrue myths. You shoud not believe the myths. Some myths ruin the experience of drinking bourbon. All in all, however, as long as you know to ignore these myths, you can hardly go wrong drinking bourbon. Don’t believe everything told about bourbon and you will be fine. We hope that this list of the biggest myths about bourbon you shouldn’t believe helps disprove some of the lies, and we wish you a great rest of your day.

Let us help you make your next family or friend gathering special, educational, and memorable.

Visit www.tourwithusky.com to see more details about the B-Line Trail Southbound as well as our other tour packages.

Bourbon Tours Northern Kentucky