Walking down the whiskey aisle can feel like navigating a family reunion where you don’t know all the relatives. You see Scotch, Rye, Irish Whiskey, and of course, Bourbon. They all share a last name, but each has its own distinct personality and story. This often leads to the central question for enthusiasts and newcomers alike: is bourbon and whiskey the same thing? While they are related, bourbon is the family member with a very specific, non-negotiable set of rules they live by. These aren’t just traditions; they are legal requirements that define its character. This guide will walk you through those foundational rules, from the grain recipe to the barrel, so you can understand what truly sets America’s native spirit apart from the rest of its global family.
Key Takeaways
- Bourbon’s Rules Guarantee Its Character: To be called bourbon, a whiskey must be made in the USA from at least 51% corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels. These non-negotiable rules are why you can always expect a foundation of sweet caramel and vanilla notes in every bottle.
- Choose Your Bottle Based on Flavor Grains: The best way to find a bourbon you’ll love is to look beyond the corn. A high-rye mash bill delivers spicy, peppery notes, while a wheated bourbon offers a softer, smoother profile, making it easy to match a bottle to your personal taste.
- Experiment to Find Your Ideal Sip: There’s no wrong way to drink bourbon. Start by tasting it neat to get a baseline, then add a few drops of water or a large ice cube to see how the aromas and flavors change. This simple process helps you discover the full potential of your whiskey.
What Defines a Whiskey?
Before we can truly appreciate what makes bourbon so special, it helps to get to know the broader category it belongs to. Think of “whiskey” as the big, welcoming family, with spirits like bourbon, scotch, and rye as its distinct and fascinating members. Each one has its own personality, but they all share the same last name. At its core, whiskey is a spirit with a rich, global history and a surprisingly straightforward definition. It’s a journey from grain to glass that distillers have perfected over centuries, a craft passed down through generations that results in the complex and beloved drink we enjoy today.
The story of whiskey is one of transformation. It’s about taking simple, raw ingredients and carefully crafting them into something with incredible depth and character. This process requires patience, artistry, and a deep respect for tradition—qualities that define the world of fine spirits. While different types of whiskey have their own specific rules and regional quirks, they all share a common foundation in how they’re made and what they’re made from. Understanding these fundamentals is the first step for any enthusiast looking to explore this diverse world. It gives you the language to describe what you’re tasting and the context to appreciate the subtle differences that make each bottle unique. So, let’s start with the basics.
The Core Ingredients
At its heart, whiskey begins with fermented grains. The specific type of grain used is the first major decision a distiller makes, and it sets the stage for the spirit’s final flavor profile. Common choices include corn, barley, rye, and wheat, each bringing something unique to the table. Corn, the star of bourbon, lends a characteristic sweetness with notes of vanilla and caramel. Rye offers a bold, peppery spice that tingles on the palate. Malted barley provides a rich, toasty, and sometimes chocolatey depth, while wheat creates a softer, gentler spirit with a delicate sweetness. The unique recipe of these grains, known as the mash bill, is what gives each of our whiskeys its foundational character before it ever touches a barrel.
The Production Process
Making whiskey involves a few key steps: mashing, fermenting, distilling, and aging. After the grains are cooked into a mash, yeast is added to start fermentation, creating a simple “distiller’s beer.” This liquid is then distilled, usually twice, in copper stills to concentrate the alcohol and refine the flavors. But the real magic happens during aging. The clear, raw spirit goes into wooden barrels, where it will spend years developing its signature amber color and complex taste. The barrel isn’t just a container; it’s an active ingredient, imparting flavors of vanilla, caramel, and spice while smoothing out any harshness. This patient process is a testament to the craft, a story of resilience and transformation that echoes in the life of Mary Dowling herself.
Whiskeys Around the World
Whiskey is a truly global spirit, with celebrated varieties produced everywhere from Scotland and Ireland to Japan, Canada, and the United States. Each region brings its own traditions, creating a diverse landscape of flavors. Scotch whisky, for example, is famous for its smoky, peated notes, while Irish whiskey is known for its exceptionally smooth, triple-distilled character. You might have also noticed a small but significant difference in spelling. In the United States and Ireland, it’s typically spelled “whiskey.” In Scotland, Canada, and Japan, it’s “whisky.” Neither is wrong—it’s simply a nod to the spirit’s origin. This global variety is fantastic news for cocktail lovers, as it provides an endless palette for creating new and classic recipes.
Bourbon vs. Whiskey: What’s the Real Difference?
You’ve probably heard the old saying: all bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. It’s a simple phrase, but it holds the key to understanding what makes this spirit so special. Whiskey is a broad category of spirits distilled from fermented grain mash—think of it as the large, extended family. Bourbon, on the other hand, is the family member with a very specific set of rules they live by. These regulations aren’t just for show; they define bourbon’s character and protect its heritage as a uniquely American spirit. To truly be called bourbon, a whiskey must follow a strict legal code that dictates everything from its ingredients to its aging process. It’s this dedication to a specific craft that makes our whiskeys a true expression of bourbon’s rich history.
The Legal Rules of Bourbon
Think of bourbon as having a legal identity, protected by U.S. law. For a spirit to earn the name “bourbon,” it has to meet a specific list of non-negotiable requirements. These aren’t just industry suggestions; they are federal standards that ensure every bottle labeled as bourbon maintains a certain level of quality and authenticity. This framework was put in place to preserve the integrity of America’s native spirit. It’s this commitment to tradition and craft that separates bourbon from other whiskeys and gives it a distinct place on the shelf. Every step, from the grain to the glass, is guided by these foundational rules.
Grain Bill Requirements
It all starts with the grain. The recipe, or “mash bill,” for bourbon must contain at least 51% corn. This is the most important ingredient rule and is largely responsible for bourbon’s signature sweetness. The remaining 49% of the mash bill can be a mix of other grains, like rye, wheat, and malted barley, which distillers use to create unique flavor profiles. A high-rye bourbon will have spicier notes, while a “wheated” bourbon is typically softer and smoother. In contrast, other whiskeys have different primary grains—Scotch often uses malted barley, and rye whiskey, as the name suggests, must contain at least 51% rye.
Strict Aging Standards
How bourbon is aged is just as important as what it’s made from. The law states that bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels. Using a brand-new barrel for every batch means the wood has the maximum amount of flavor to impart to the spirit. The charring process caramelizes the sugars in the wood, which is where those classic notes of vanilla, caramel, and toffee come from. Furthermore, the spirit can’t be distilled to more than 160 proof and must enter the barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof. This ensures the final product is rich with flavor derived from the barrel, not just the alcohol.
Made in the USA
Bourbon is a proud American product. One of the key legal requirements is that it must be produced in the United States. While about 95% of the world’s bourbon comes from Kentucky, it can technically be made anywhere in the country, from New York to Texas. The deep connection to Kentucky is rooted in history, with its limestone-filtered water and ideal climate for aging barrels. This sense of place is central to the spirit’s identity and is woven into Mary Dowling’s own story of resilience and bourbon craftsmanship in the heart of Kentucky. This “Made in the USA” designation makes bourbon a true American original.
How Bourbon Gets Its Signature Character
Ever wonder what gives bourbon that deep amber color and rich, complex flavor? It’s not magic, but it is a masterful blend of science, artistry, and a strict set of rules. Unlike other spirits that allow for more flexibility, bourbon’s character is meticulously built through a series of non-negotiable steps. From the specific grains that form its foundation to the type of barrel it rests in, every detail is intentional.
This process is where distillers get to show their skill. While the rules provide the framework, the subtle decisions made along the way are what distinguish a good bourbon from a truly exceptional one. The precise recipe of grains, the exact level of char in the barrel, and the careful management of proof all work together to create the final spirit you pour into your glass. It’s a testament to the idea that true creativity often flourishes within clear boundaries. Understanding these steps gives you a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every sip.
The Role of the Mash Bill
Think of the mash bill as the bourbon’s DNA. It’s the foundational recipe of grains that dictates the spirit’s core flavor profile. By law, a bourbon’s mash bill must contain at least 51% corn, which is what gives the whiskey its signature sweetness. The remaining 49% is where distillers can get creative with “flavoring grains.” Using rye adds spicy, peppery notes, while wheat creates a softer, gentler character. A small amount of malted barley is also typically included to aid in the fermentation process. This grain recipe is the first major decision a distiller makes, setting the stage for everything that follows. You can explore how different grain combinations create unique tastes in our portfolio of award-winning whiskeys.
The Magic of Charred Oak
If the mash bill is the DNA, the barrel is where the bourbon is raised. Federal standards require bourbon to be aged in new, charred oak containers. The “new” part is crucial—a barrel can only be used once to age bourbon. Before the whiskey goes in, the inside of the barrel is toasted and charred with open flames. This process caramelizes the sugars in the wood and creates a layer of charcoal that acts as a natural filter. As the bourbon ages, it expands and contracts with temperature changes, seeping into the wood and pulling out all that beautiful color and flavor—notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice. This interaction with the barrel is responsible for the majority of a bourbon’s final taste.
Proofing and Distillation
The alcohol content, or proof, of bourbon is carefully controlled at every stage of production. The rules are specific: the spirit can’t be distilled to more than 160 proof (80% ABV), it must enter the new charred oak barrel at no more than 125 proof (62.5% ABV), and it has to be bottled at a minimum of 80 proof (40% ABV). These numbers aren’t random; they are designed to ensure the integrity of the final product. Distilling at a lower proof helps retain more of the flavor from the grain. The entry proof for the barrel affects how the spirit interacts with the wood, shaping the extraction of flavors. Finally, the bottling proof ensures the bourbon has a robust character and isn’t over-diluted.
No Additives Allowed
Here’s a simple rule that speaks volumes about bourbon’s quality: nothing can be added to it except water. That’s it. There are no artificial colors, no caramel coloring to darken the hue, and no added flavorings. The deep amber color you see in the bottle comes entirely from the spirit’s time spent aging in a charred oak barrel. The complex notes of vanilla, fruit, and spice are derived only from the grains and the wood. This commitment to purity is a hallmark of bourbon and a key reason it’s so revered. It guarantees that what you’re tasting is the pure, unadulterated result of authentic American whiskey craftsmanship.
What Does Bourbon Taste Like?
Bourbon’s flavor profile is one of the most recognizable in the world of spirits, and for good reason. The strict rules governing its production create a consistent yet wonderfully complex character. While every bottle is unique, you can almost always expect to find a beautiful balance of sweet, smoky, spicy, and fruity notes. Think of these as the four main pillars of bourbon’s taste. Understanding them will help you appreciate every sip and find the perfect bottle for your palate.
A Touch of Sweetness
The first thing most people notice when they taste bourbon is its signature sweetness. This comes directly from its main ingredient: corn. Because bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn, it has a naturally sweet foundation. This sweetness is then amplified during the aging process. As the spirit rests in new, charred oak barrels, the heat-treated wood releases sugars that develop into rich flavors of caramel, vanilla, and toffee. You might also pick up notes of honey or brown sugar, which give bourbon its comforting, full-bodied character. This inherent sweetness makes it an incredibly approachable type of whiskey for newcomers.
Notes of Oak and Char
That sweet character is balanced by deep, smoky notes from the barrel itself. By law, bourbon must be aged in brand-new, charred oak containers. This charring process caramelizes the sugars in the wood and creates a layer of charcoal that filters the whiskey as it ages. This interaction imparts classic flavors of toasted oak, smoke, and sometimes even a hint of leather or tobacco. The barrel is also responsible for bourbon’s beautiful amber color. Since these barrels can only be used once to age bourbon, every drop is infused with the freshest, most potent wood character, giving it a robust and complex finish.
Warm Spice Elements
Beyond sweet and smoky, bourbon often has a delightful layer of warm spice. These notes typically come from the secondary grains in the mash bill, most often rye or wheat. A bourbon with a high rye content will deliver bold, spicy flavors like black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg, which create a pleasant warmth on the palate. On the other hand, a “wheated” bourbon uses wheat instead of rye, resulting in a softer, gentler profile with more bready or floral notes. This spice element adds a fantastic complexity that cuts through the sweetness and keeps the flavor profile interesting and dynamic.
Hints of Fruit
Finally, many bourbons express beautiful hints of fruit. These flavors are created by compounds called esters, which develop during fermentation and maturation in the barrel. Depending on the specific yeast strain and aging conditions, you might taste notes of dark cherry, baked apple, orange peel, or other stone fruits. For example, our Mary Dowling Double Oak Barrel bourbon features memorable notes of cherry and baking spice. These fruity undertones can range from bright and zesty to dark and rich, adding another layer of sophistication to the tasting experience and making each bourbon distinct.
Bourbon Myths, Busted
Bourbon is surrounded by a lot of lore, and not all of it is true. Let’s clear the air and separate fact from fiction so you can sip with confidence. We’ll walk through some of the most common myths you’ve probably heard about America’s native spirit.
Geographic Origins
Let’s clear this one up first: bourbon does not have to be made in Kentucky. While the Bluegrass State is the historic heart of bourbon country, the only geographic rule is that it must be produced in the United States. From Texas to New York, distillers are crafting incredible bourbons that honor the spirit’s heritage while adding their own local character. This spirit is a true American original, not just a Kentucky one. The regulations focus on the “how,” not the “where,” leaving room for innovation and resilience—a spirit Mary Dowling herself would have appreciated.
Production Requirements
Not all whiskey is bourbon, and the recipe is a big reason why. To legally be called bourbon, a whiskey’s grain mixture, or mash bill, must be at least 51% corn. This high corn content is the source of bourbon’s signature sweetness. The other grains, typically rye, wheat, or malted barley, are where distillers add their unique touch. A high-rye bourbon brings the spice, while a wheated bourbon offers a softer, gentler profile. It’s this foundational recipe that sets the stage for the spirit’s final character, which you can explore in our own award-winning whiskeys.
Aging Rules
This rule is a big one. Bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels. No exceptions. While other whiskeys might mature in barrels that once held sherry, port, or other spirits, bourbon always gets a fresh start. The process of charring the barrel caramelizes the wood’s natural sugars, creating a charcoal layer that filters the spirit and imparts those classic notes of vanilla, toffee, and spice. This non-negotiable step is where much of bourbon’s rich color and deep complexity develops, turning a clear spirit into the amber liquid we love.
Additive Regulations
When you pour a glass of bourbon, you’re tasting a pure spirit. Federal regulations forbid the addition of any artificial colors or flavors. That beautiful amber hue? It comes entirely from the interaction between the whiskey and the charred oak barrel during aging. The only substance that can be added after maturation is water, which is used to bring the spirit to its bottling proof. This commitment to authenticity means every note you taste is a direct result of the ingredients and the distiller’s craft—nothing more, nothing less.
How to Choose the Right Bourbon
Walking into a liquor store and facing a wall of bourbon can feel a little overwhelming. With so many options, how do you find the one that’s right for you? The secret is knowing what to look for. Choosing a great bourbon isn’t about grabbing the most expensive bottle; it’s about matching the spirit to your palate and your purpose, whether you’re sipping it neat or mixing up a classic cocktail. Think of it as a personal journey to find the flavors that speak to you. We’ll walk through a few simple considerations to help you select your next bottle with confidence.
Finding Quality at Any Price
You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a fantastic bourbon, but it’s true that quality often comes with a thoughtful price tag. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a mid-range bourbon; it’s an accessible sweet spot that typically offers a much richer flavor and smoother experience than bottom-shelf options. Instead of focusing only on price, look for signs of craftsmanship on the label, such as “straight bourbon whiskey” or an age statement. These details often point to a spirit made with care and patience. Exploring a distillery’s unique offerings, like the award-winning whiskeys from Mary Dowling, can show you what a truly well-crafted bourbon tastes like.
Matching Your Flavor Preferences
The best bourbon for you is one that you’ll actually enjoy drinking. Before you buy, think about the flavors you generally prefer. Do you like sweet, caramel, and vanilla notes? Look for a traditional bourbon with a high corn content in its mash bill. If you prefer a bit of spice and pepper, a high-rye bourbon might be your perfect match. For something softer and smoother, a wheated bourbon is an excellent choice. You can start by matching the bourbon’s flavor profile to the style of cocktail you’re making or simply choose based on what sounds most appealing for sipping.
Understanding Proof Levels
“Proof” simply refers to the alcohol content of the spirit—it’s double the percentage of alcohol by volume (ABV). While a higher proof can mean more intensity, it doesn’t automatically mean “better.” For cocktails, many bartenders prefer mid-level proof bourbons in the 90 to 105 range (45% to 52.5% ABV). This strength ensures the bourbon’s character shines through without getting lost behind mixers like sweet vermouth or citrus. For sipping, the ideal proof is entirely up to you. Some enjoy the bold, unadulterated flavors of a cask-strength bourbon, while others prefer a standard 80 or 90-proof spirit that’s a bit more approachable.
Picking a Bourbon for Cocktails
When you’re making a cocktail, you want a bourbon that’s a team player but can still hold its own. A great mixing bourbon should have a bold enough flavor profile to stand up to other ingredients. Look for a versatile spirit with classic bourbon notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel, along with a touch of spice. This balance works beautifully in a wide range of drinks, from a stirred Old Fashioned to a shaken Whiskey Sour. You don’t need a separate bourbon for every drink; finding one solid, flavorful bottle will give you a fantastic foundation for all your mixology adventures. Check out some classic recipes to see how a quality bourbon can form the heart of a memorable cocktail.
Store and Serve Bourbon Like a Pro
You’ve found a bourbon you love; now it’s time to give it the treatment it deserves. How you store and serve your whiskey can make a real difference in the tasting experience, ensuring every sip is as rich and complex as the distiller intended. Getting these simple details right helps you appreciate the full character of the spirit, from its aroma to its finish. Think of it as the final step in honoring the craft that went into the bottle. There isn’t one single “correct” way to enjoy bourbon, but understanding a few key principles will help you find the perfect method for your palate.
Whether you’re pouring a dram of a meticulously crafted spirit like Mary Dowling’s Double Oak Barrel Bourbon or mixing up a classic cocktail, a little intention goes a long way. These aren’t strict rules but rather time-tested guidelines that whiskey lovers use to get the most out of their favorite bottles. From the temperature of the pour to the shape of the glass, each element plays a part in the sensory experience. By experimenting with these variables, you can discover new notes and aromas in bourbons you thought you knew well. It’s a simple way to deepen your appreciation for the spirit and the incredible history behind it.
The Right Temperature
Bourbon is at its best when served at room temperature, typically between 60 and 65°F. This allows the full spectrum of its intricate flavors and aromas to express themselves. When bourbon is too cold, some of its nuanced notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice can become muted. However, personal preference is key. If you enjoy a slight chill, especially on a warm day, don’t hesitate to add a large ice cube. The goal is to enjoy your drink your way, so feel free to experiment to find the temperature that best suits your palate and the specific bourbon you’re drinking.
Choosing Your Glassware
While you can certainly enjoy bourbon from any glass, the right glassware can significantly enhance the experience. A glass with a wide bowl and a narrower opening, like a Glencairn or a tulip-shaped glass, is designed to concentrate the bourbon’s aromas, directing them toward your nose as you sip. This is ideal for tasting a spirit neat. For those who prefer their bourbon on the rocks or in a cocktail, a classic rocks glass (or Old Fashioned glass) is the perfect choice. It’s sturdy, has a wide brim, and provides plenty of room for ice or mixers for one of our signature recipes.
Neat, On the Rocks, or With Water?
How you take your bourbon is a personal choice, and each method offers a unique experience. Drinking it neat—straight, with no additions—allows you to taste the spirit exactly as it came from the bottle, appreciating the full flavor profile the distiller created. Adding a large ice cube or two, known as serving it “on the rocks,” can mellow the intensity and slowly release new flavors as the ice melts. A few drops of water can also be transformative, opening up the bourbon’s aroma and softening the alcohol burn. Try one of our whiskeys neat first, then add a little water or ice to see how its character evolves.
Best Practices for Storage
Properly storing your bourbon ensures it will maintain its quality for years to come. The most important rule is to keep the bottle upright in a cool, dark place. Storing it upright prevents the high-proof spirit from eroding the cork over time, which can taint the flavor and cause the seal to fail. You should also avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations, as these can degrade the whiskey’s complex flavor compounds. A cabinet, pantry, or bar cart away from a window is the perfect spot to house your collection and keep it ready for your next pour.
Mix the Perfect Bourbon Cocktail
One of the best ways to appreciate bourbon is by using it to create a delicious cocktail. Whether you’re a seasoned home bartender or just starting, mixing the perfect drink is all about balancing flavors and using quality ingredients. A well-crafted bourbon provides the ideal foundation, offering a depth of character that can stand up to mixers or shine on its own. With a few simple techniques, you can easily craft classic and creative cocktails that will impress any guest—or just make your evening a little more special.
Essential Mixing Techniques
You don’t need a full bar setup to make a great drink. Start with the basics: a shaker for cocktails with juice or egg whites, a mixing glass and long spoon for spirit-forward drinks, and a jigger for accurate measurements. A good rule of thumb is to choose a quality bourbon that offers a rich flavor. When it’s time to mix, remember this simple guideline: shake cocktails that need to be aerated and chilled (like a Whiskey Sour), and stir drinks made entirely of spirits (like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan) to achieve a smooth, silky texture without over-diluting.
Classic Cocktail Recipes
Bourbon is incredibly versatile, serving as the base for some of the most iconic cocktails in history. Think of the refreshing Mint Julep, the sophisticated Manhattan, or the timeless Old Fashioned. Each one highlights a different facet of bourbon’s character. For a modern twist, you could try a Paper Plane, which balances bourbon with bitter and citrus notes. Don’t feel like you have to memorize every recipe. Instead, get familiar with a few favorites and explore our collection of bourbon recipes to find step-by-step instructions for your next creation.
Tips for Pairing Flavors
Creating a balanced cocktail is all about harmony. The key is to match the bourbon’s flavor profile to the other ingredients in your drink. A bourbon with strong notes of caramel and vanilla pairs beautifully with the sweet vermouth in a Manhattan or the bright citrus in a Whiskey Sour. If you’re using a bourbon with a spicier rye-forward mash bill, it can stand up to bolder flavors like ginger beer or a bitter amaro. Start simple to get a feel for what you like, then let your creativity guide you.
Garnishes That Impress
A garnish is the finishing touch that transforms a good drink into a great one. It’s not just for looks—it adds crucial aroma and a hint of flavor that complements the cocktail. An orange peel expressed over an Old Fashioned releases fragrant oils, while a sprig of fresh mint in a Julep awakens the senses before you even take a sip. Feel free to get creative with fresh ingredients. A few blackberries and a basil leaf can add a surprising, delicious twist to a simple bourbon smash. The right garnish makes the first impression and completes the entire drinking experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does bourbon really have to be made in Kentucky? This is one of the most common myths out there! While Kentucky is the historic heart of bourbon production, the only geographic requirement is that bourbon must be made in the United States. As long as a distiller follows all the other rules—like using at least 51% corn and aging in new, charred oak barrels—they can craft authentic bourbon anywhere from coast to coast.
What does “straight bourbon” mean when I see it on a label? Seeing “straight bourbon” on a bottle is a good sign of quality. It means the whiskey has met all the standard requirements for bourbon and has also been aged for a minimum of two years in new, charred oak barrels. Furthermore, if it’s aged for less than four years, the label must state its age. It’s an extra layer of transparency that tells you a bit more about the spirit’s journey.
Can I use the same bourbon for sipping neat and for making cocktails? Absolutely. The key is to find a versatile, well-balanced bottle. A bourbon in the 90-100 proof range is often a great choice because it has enough character to stand up to mixers in a cocktail, but it’s still smooth enough to be enjoyed on its own. Look for a bourbon with a classic flavor profile of caramel, vanilla, and a bit of spice, as this will work beautifully in almost any context.
Once I open a bottle, how long will my bourbon last? Unlike wine, bourbon doesn’t spoil. A sealed bottle will last for decades, and an opened one will remain perfectly drinkable for years. Over time, as more air gets into the bottle, a slow process of oxidation will gradually soften the flavors. To keep your bourbon tasting its best, simply store it upright in a cool, dark place and enjoy it at your own pace.
Why is bourbon always aged in brand-new barrels? This rule is essential to creating bourbon’s signature flavor. A brand-new, charred oak barrel imparts the maximum amount of flavor and color to the spirit. All those rich notes of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak come directly from this first interaction with the wood. Using a fresh barrel for every batch ensures a consistent and robust character that defines bourbon and sets it apart from other whiskeys, which often use recycled barrels.
Justin Pakdaman is the Marketing Director for Mary Dowling Whiskey Co., where he leads brand storytelling, digital strategy, and consumer engagement. Justin has years of experience building premium spirits brands.