When browsing our vast aisles at Lukas Wine & Spirit Superstore, you may run into two similar-looking styles of alcohol — Whiskey and Bourbon. You might be wondering what the differences between these two alcohols are. The first thing to note is that bourbon is a type of whiskey. In essence, all bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. In the following read, your local experts in Lone Tree will break down the main differences between whiskey and bourbon so that you can make the best choice for your taste! Visit our store today for the best alcohol variety in Colorado.
Bourbon is an American-style whiskey distilled from a mash made primarily from corn. Distillers can only label a spirit bourbon when made with at least 51 percent corn and are allowed to age in new charred oak barrels. As bourbon is aged in barrels, the mash must be distilled at 160 proof (80 percent alcohol by volume) or less and aged until it is no more than 125 proof (62.5 percent alcohol per volume). Once filtered and diluted, bourbon must be no less than 80 proof (40 percent alcohol per volume) to meet requirements.
Whiskey is a spirit distilled from a fermented mix of grains including barley, corn, rye, or wheat. Unlike bourbon which is American-made, whiskey is produced all over the world, most notably in Scotland, Ireland, Japan, and Canada. Whiskey can be aged or unaged but is often better when aged in wooden barrels, which darkens its color and improves the flavor. ABV marks differ depending on the style of whiskey, so it is best to check the bottle to know what you are drinking!
The main differences between bourbon and whiskey are the grains used and where the spirit is made. Some other differences include:
Bourbon is aged in new, charred oak barrels that give it notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. Some other ways the taste is often described include baking species, black pepper, cocoa, and fruity. Bourbon tends to be the smoother option, with a softer taste that makes it a great entry-level sipper. Whiskey taste depends on the style, but it tends to have a woody or oaky flavor with added notes of spice, fruit, nuts, vanilla, or caramel.
Now that you know the difference between bourbon and whiskey, we hope that you are better prepared to make your choice when visiting us at Lukas Wine & Spirit Superstore. As a local Lone Tree liquor store, we have everything you need to succeed! Visit us today.
Unless you are a whiskey enthusiast, you may not know exactly why most whiskies sit in barrels before being sold. After all, what big of a difference could it make for a whiskey to stay in a barrel instead of being bottled right up? Well, it makes all the difference in the world, as barrels are what often make whiskey, whiskey. Your local Lone Tree experts at Lukas Wine & Spirit Superstore are here to teach you why the whiskey barrel matters, and how it helps make the liquor you love!
One of the main reasons whiskey sits in barrels for years is because the aging process provides its wonderful taste. The longer a whiskey sits inside a barrel, the more likely it is to taste great. As the barrel of whiskey ages, the wood allows vapor to pass outside the barrel while integrating oxygen into the aging process. Also, the wood barrels are often charred before use, which leaves a charcoal coating that acts as a filter, removing flavors that are not good on the palette.
Wood barrels, which are often toasted and charred, give whiskey many of its well-known flavors. Alcohol content within whiskey acts as a solvent, which breaks down the compounds found in the wood. As this process occurs, the whiskey draws out naturally-occurring vanillins (oils), which alter the flavor profile of the liquor. This is what provides whiskey with its delicious oaky and smoky flavor notes.
Fun fact, all of a whiskey’s color comes from sitting inside a wooden barrel. As whiskey ages for years on end, it grows into a rich and dark color, which is one of the most notable aspects of this type of liquor. Seasonal changes affect the way whiskey interacts with the barrel, as changing temperatures and pressure moves the whisky in and out of the wood. The more of this that occurs, the darker a whiskey is likely to turn out.
There are many factors that affect the way in which a barrel will interact with whiskey, which include
Now that you know a bit more about whiskey, it’s time to give various types a try to find the best option for you! At Lukas Wine & Spirit Superstore, we have all of the whiskies you need for any occasion, whether you are looking for bourbon, Scotch, Japanese whiskey, Irish whiskey, or anything else. Visit us today!
As Labor Day approaches, it’s time to honor the hard work and dedication of the American workforce by taking a well-deserved break. And what better way to relax than by raising a glass of wine or spirits in celebration? Lukas Liquor in Lone Tree, CO, your go-to specialty liquor store and liquor warehouse, is here to help you find the perfect beverages to make September 4th truly memorable.
With our wide selection of wines, spirits, and specialty liquors, Lukas Liquor offers an unparalleled range of options to suit every palate. Let’s explore four exciting categories of Labor Day beverages that will ensure your holiday is filled with flavor and relaxation.
Classic Labor Day Cocktails
Labor Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in some classic cocktails that embody the spirit of the season. Whether you’re hosting a poolside party or a backyard barbecue, our knowledgeable staff at Lukas Liquor can guide you in selecting the ideal ingredients for refreshing drinks like Margaritas, Mojitos, or even a fruity Sangria. With our premium liquor and extensive mixers collection, you can become the master mixologist of your Labor Day celebration.
Refreshing Beer Choices for a Backyard BBQ
What’s a Labor Day weekend without some ice-cold beers to accompany your barbecue feast? Lukas Liquor offers an extensive selection of craft beers, local brews, and international favorites to complement your backyard gathering. Whether you prefer a hoppy IPA, a smooth lager, or a rich stout, our friendly staff can help you find the perfect beer to satisfy the taste buds of every guest. Cheers to good times and great beer!
Wine Selections for a Relaxing Evening
If you’re seeking a more laid-back and elegant Labor Day experience, Lukas Liquor has a diverse collection of wines to tempt your palate. From crisp whites to full-bodied reds, our extensive wine selection offers something for everyone. Enhance your evening by exploring the world of wine with our knowledgeable team. Celebrate your hard work and unwind with a glass of your favorite vintage.
Mocktail Options for Non-Alcoholic Celebrations
Not everyone may desire an alcoholic drink during Labor Day festivities, and that’s perfectly fine! Lukas Liquor is here to provide delicious non-alcoholic options to ensure everyone can participate in the celebration. With our array of specialty sodas, flavored syrups, and fresh ingredients, we can help you create mocktails that are just as exciting and refreshing as their spirited counterparts. Toast to the occasion with delightful and alcohol-free concoctions that will satisfy all taste buds.
This Labor Day, let Lukas Liquor elevate your celebration with an exquisite range of wine and spirits. Start planning your celebration now, because every hardworking individual deserves a moment to relax, savor, and toast to success. Cheers to Labor Day!
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