--- title: Can Bourbon Only Be Made In Kentucky? description: Can Bourbon Only Be Made In Kentucky? Kentucky is most definitely the undisputed homeland of bourbon, but many other states also have a claim to the title. image: https://blog.thepotstill.irish/hubfs/Screenshot%202022-09-20%20at%2015.21.15.png --- [![The Pot Still - Whiskey Review and Blog - Craig Ellis](https://blog.thepotstill.irish/hs-fs/hubfs/The%20Pot%20Still%20-%20Whiskey%20Review%20and%20Blog%20-%20Craig%20Ellis.png?width=50&height=36&name=The%20Pot%20Still%20-%20Whiskey%20Review%20and%20Blog%20-%20Craig%20Ellis.png "The Pot Still - Whiskey Review and Blog - Craig Ellis")](https://www.thepotstill.irish/) ## The Pot Still read # Can Bourbon Only Be Made In Kentucky? By Craig Ellis Author Bio: Craig's love for all things whiskey began when he visited his first distillery, Talisker in 2006. During his free time, he likes to visit distilleries around the globe, planning his travel around these locations. Craig created The Pot Still in 2016 when he first started to collect rare and unusual whiskeys. His whiskey collection has grown and grown since. Craig writes and reviews independently and is not commissioned by any brand or distillery. Craig's views and opinions are his own. ![Can Bourbon Only Be Made In Kentucky?](https://blog.thepotstill.irish/hubfs/Screenshot%202022-09-20%20at%2015.21.15.png) - ** - ** - ** Bourbon is one of the most mistaken when it comes to location and regulations. It has a long and storied history, dating back to the early days of the American colonies. Since then, it has been an essential part of American culture, enjoyed by Presidents and everyday citizens alike. ![Can Bourbon Only Be Made In Kentucky?](https://blog.thepotstill.irish/hs-fs/hubfs/Can%20Bourbon%20Only%20Be%20Made%20In%20Kentucky%3F.png?width=1920&name=Can%20Bourbon%20Only%20Be%20Made%20In%20Kentucky%3F.png) ## Can Bourbon Only Be Made In Kentucky? The answer is no, not necessarily. Kentucky is definitely the spiritual home of bourbon whiskey. The fact that the Kentucky state’s climate and water supply are perfectly suited for distilling, and its long tradition of craftsmanship is unrivalled. However, many other states also produce high-quality bourbon. Indiana, for example, has a similar climate to Kentucky and is home to several respected distilleries. Tennessee also has a strong bourbon tradition, with some of the most famous brands produced there. Kentucky is most definitely the undisputed homeland of bourbon, but many other states also have a claim to the title. In the end, it’s up to the drinker to decide which bourbon they prefer. Whether it’s from Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, or any other state, the important thing is that it’s delicious. ![Kentucky Bourbon Trail](https://blog.thepotstill.irish/hs-fs/hubfs/Kentucky%20Bourbon%20Trail.png?width=1790&name=Kentucky%20Bourbon%20Trail.png) ## What Makes a Whiskey, a Bourbon?  As with most whiskey styles, there are a few things that make a whiskey a bourbon. 1. It must be made in the United States.  2. It must be made from a grain mixture of at least 51% corn. 3. It must be aged in **new, charred oak barrels**. 4. It must be **distilled to no more than 160 proof** and **bottled at no less than 80 proof**. 5. It must **not contain any additives**.   Tags: [American Whiskey](https://blog.thepotstill.irish/tag/american-whiskey), [Bourbon Whiskey](https://blog.thepotstill.irish/tag/bourbon-whiskey) Whiskey Search ## The Pot Still Founded by Craig Ellis to educate the world on all whiskey types. 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