How To Order Bourbon

Ever find yourself staring blankly at a bourbon list, intimidated by unfamiliar terms and unsure of what to actually order? You're not alone. Bourbon, America's native spirit, offers a complex and captivating world of flavors, but navigating it can feel daunting. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey aficionado or a curious newcomer, understanding how to order bourbon with confidence enhances your drinking experience, allowing you to explore the nuances of each bottle and discover your personal preferences.

Knowing the lingo, understanding your palate, and being able to communicate your preferences to a bartender are essential for a rewarding bourbon journey. Instead of relying on guesswork or settling for the same old standby, you'll gain the ability to explore different mash bills, aging techniques, and proofs, ultimately unlocking a greater appreciation for this iconic spirit. This guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and tools to order bourbon like a pro, ensuring that every pour is a step closer to finding your perfect dram.

What are the key things to consider when ordering bourbon?

What are some good bourbons for beginners to order at a bar?

For a beginner ordering bourbon at a bar, start with approachable and readily available options like Maker's Mark, Buffalo Trace, or Knob Creek. These bourbons offer a balanced profile of sweetness, spice, and oak, making them easy to enjoy neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan. They also provide a good baseline for understanding bourbon flavors without being overly challenging.

Many factors influence a bourbon's flavor, but these selections are generally considered crowd-pleasers. Maker's Mark has a softer, sweeter profile due to its use of wheat as a secondary grain (a "wheated" bourbon), making it less spicy than some others. Buffalo Trace is a classic Kentucky bourbon with a balanced mix of caramel, vanilla, and spice, offering a good representation of traditional bourbon flavors. Knob Creek is bottled at 100 proof, giving it a slightly bolder flavor, but it's still very approachable and offers a rich, satisfying experience. When ordering, consider how you want to enjoy your bourbon. If you're new to it, try it neat (at room temperature, without ice) to fully experience the flavors. Alternatively, ask for it "on the rocks" (over ice) which can help mellow the alcohol and open up some of the aromas. Don't hesitate to ask the bartender for recommendations based on your preferences – they often have insights into their current selection and can suggest something you might enjoy.

How do I specify a particular mash bill when ordering?

You generally can't specify a particular mash bill when ordering bourbon in a bar or restaurant. Distilleries closely guard their mash bill recipes, and bourbons are usually identified by brand name, not by their exact grain composition. The best you can do is familiarize yourself with the general characteristics of different mash bills, such as high-rye or wheated bourbons, and then ask for a recommendation based on those preferences.

While you won't be able to request a bourbon based on the precise percentages of corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley, understanding the impact of these grains will help you make informed choices. A high-rye bourbon will typically have a spicier, bolder flavor profile, while a wheated bourbon will be softer, sweeter, and often described as having notes of caramel and vanilla. Corn contributes to the sweetness and overall body of the whiskey, and malted barley is crucial for the enzymatic process that converts starches into fermentable sugars.

Instead of focusing on the exact mash bill, consider these approaches when ordering:

What's the best way to order bourbon neat vs. on the rocks?

The "best" way depends entirely on personal preference and the specific bourbon. Ordering neat allows you to experience the bourbon's full flavor profile undiluted, while ordering it on the rocks chills the spirit and gradually dilutes it, potentially mellowing harsh edges and opening up different notes as it sits. There's no inherently superior method; it's about what you enjoy most.

Consider the bourbon itself when deciding. Higher-proof bourbons might benefit from a rock or two, as the slight dilution can tame the heat and make them more approachable. Bourbons with complex or subtle flavor profiles are often best appreciated neat, allowing you to discern the nuances without interference. Experiment! Try a small pour neat first, then add a single ice cube to see how it changes. Ultimately, the goal is to enjoy the bourbon. Don't be afraid to try both methods and discover what works best for you. Factors like the ambient temperature, your mood, and the specific characteristics of the bourbon should all influence your decision. There's no shame in ordering a bourbon neat one time and on the rocks the next – it's all part of the exploration.

How do I ask about the bourbon selection if there's no menu?

If there's no bourbon menu, the best approach is to directly ask the bartender or server about their bourbon selection. Phrase your inquiry in a way that encourages them to share what they have available, including any specialties or recommendations.

Instead of a simple "Do you have bourbon?", try a more open-ended question like, "What bourbons do you have behind the bar?" or "Could you tell me about your bourbon selection?" This prompts the bartender to elaborate beyond a yes/no answer. You can also specify if you have any preferences: "What kind of bourbon do you have? I usually enjoy something high-rye" or "Do you have any allocated or hard-to-find bourbons?" Be prepared to answer follow-up questions about your preferred flavor profile (sweet, spicy, oaky) or price range to help them narrow down the options. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations based on your preferences. For instance, "I like Maker's Mark. Do you have anything similar to that?" or "What's your favorite bourbon that you're currently pouring?" Bartenders often have a wealth of knowledge and enjoy sharing their expertise. Remember to be polite and patient, especially during busy periods, as they may need a moment to assess their inventory and provide a thoughtful response.

What does it mean to order a bourbon "highball"?

Ordering a bourbon "highball" means you're requesting a cocktail consisting of bourbon whiskey mixed with a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic, carbonated mixer, typically club soda or ginger ale, served over ice in a tall glass (the "highball" glass). The focus is on a refreshing, lighter drink where the bourbon's flavor is present but not overpowering.

The beauty of a bourbon highball lies in its simplicity and adaptability. While the core recipe remains consistent – bourbon and a fizzy mixer – the ratio of bourbon to mixer can be adjusted to personal preference. Some prefer a stronger bourbon presence, while others favor a more diluted, refreshing beverage. Bartenders will often ask for clarification on preferred ratios if it's not a regular order. Furthermore, garnishes like a lemon or orange twist are common and can further enhance the flavor profile. The highball's appeal also stems from its sessionability. It's a relatively low-alcohol drink that can be enjoyed over a longer period without becoming overly intoxicating. This makes it a popular choice for social gatherings or leisurely evenings. The choice of mixer also influences the character of the drink. Club soda creates a cleaner, more neutral profile, allowing the bourbon's nuances to shine. Ginger ale, on the other hand, adds a touch of sweetness and spice that complements many bourbons.

How do I order a specific bourbon barrel pick?

Ordering a specific bourbon barrel pick is generally not possible for individual consumers. Barrel picks are typically selections made by retail stores, bars, or private groups in collaboration with distilleries, and these selections are then sold under the store's or group's label. You can, however, seek out retailers known for their barrel pick programs and inquire about their selection process or upcoming releases, or join a bourbon club that actively participates in barrel selections.

While you can't directly order *a specific* barrel pick, you can influence the process indirectly and increase your chances of acquiring one you like. Start by researching stores and bars in your area (or those that ship to your state) that are known for their excellent barrel pick programs. Follow them on social media, sign up for their email lists, and visit them regularly. Engaging with the staff and expressing your interest in their barrel selections can make them aware of your preferences and potentially provide you with advance notice of upcoming releases. Another route is to join a bourbon club or society. These groups often organize barrel picks, allowing members to participate in the selection process (sometimes even tasting samples from different barrels before the final choice is made). This provides an excellent opportunity to influence the flavor profile of the barrel and secure a bottle from a pick that aligns with your tastes. Keep an eye out for clubs in your area or online communities that host collaborative barrel selections. Ultimately, acquiring a specific barrel pick often involves networking and persistence.

How do I order a flight of bourbon?

To order a flight of bourbon, simply ask your bartender or server for a bourbon flight. Be prepared to specify any preferences you have regarding the types of bourbon you'd like to sample, such as high-rye, wheated, or specific distilleries. If you're unsure, ask for recommendations based on your taste profile or what's popular at the bar.

Expanding on that, it's helpful to understand what a flight typically entails. A bourbon flight usually consists of three to five small pours (typically 1 ounce each) of different bourbons, allowing you to compare and contrast their flavors. The bar may have pre-selected flights, or you might be able to customize your own. Customizing allows you to explore different flavor profiles, such as comparing a high-rye bourbon (spicier) to a wheated bourbon (sweeter), or sampling different expressions from the same distillery (e.g., their standard offering, a small batch, and a single barrel). When ordering, don't hesitate to inquire about the specific bourbons included in the flight if the menu doesn't detail them. Asking questions like "What's included in your 'High Rye' flight?" or "Can you tell me a bit about each bourbon in the flight?" will ensure you're getting a selection you'll enjoy. If you're overwhelmed by options, you can always provide the bartender with a flavor profile you enjoy, such as "I like bourbons with vanilla and caramel notes," and they can suggest a flight based on your preferences. Remember to sip slowly, savor the aromas, and add a drop of water if needed to unlock additional flavors.

So there you have it! Hopefully, you're feeling a bit more confident and excited to explore the wonderful world of bourbon. Don't be afraid to experiment, find what you love, and most importantly, enjoy the experience. Thanks for reading, and be sure to come back soon for more bourbon tips and tricks!