Rules Of Bourbon Slideshow

Bourbon must be made of a grain mixture consisting of at least 51% corn.

Bourbon must be distilled to no more than 160 (U.S.) proof (80% alcohol by volume).

Nothing can be added to bourbon besides distilled water (no colors, flavors or caramel coloring).

Bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak aging barrels.

Bourbon may not be introduced to the barrel at higher than 125 proof (62.5% alcohol by volume).

Bourbon which meets the above requirements and has been aged for a minimum of two years, may (but is not required to) be called Straight Bourbon.

Bourbon aged for a period less than four years must be labeled with the duration of its aging.

If an age is stated on the label, it must be the age of the youngest whiskey in the bottle.

Unbelievably, doorstop, pipe insulation, and picture frame are not included.