A Simple Guide to Spirits

Understanding the entire spectrum of the whisky category can get complicated quickly. Even the spelling can be confusing (it’s the Scotch version that has no e). Here are some basics: all whiskies are made from grains; distilled to less than 95% alcohol by volume; and are wood aged. The raw materials range from malted barley to grains such as corn, rye, and wheat and they can be produced in one single distillery or blended from the product of different distilleries. While Single Malt Scotch and small-batch bourbon are best sipped solo (neat or on the rocks), a full-flavored, oaky, vanilla-scented bourbon provides the ideal base for a Classic Mint Julep.

Steal: Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Splurge: Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey