There’s bourbon. There’s whiskey. Then, there’s Kentucky straight bourbon and whiskey. If you’re a new craft spirit enthusiast, or at least new to bourbon, you might be looking for some clarification on the unique differences between these bourbon classifications. Today, we’ll share what distinguishes the Kentucky straight bourbon from other bourbons. And with your newfound appreciation for this legendary spirit, you’ll want to sample some of the best from Lucky Seven Bourbon.

Kentucky Straight Whiskey & Bourbon: A Reputation of Greatness

Of all the regions producing bourbon and whiskey, Kentucky is often revered as the origin of the best. For decades, bourbon and whiskey distilleries have been producing some of the most iconic, award-winning blends, earning Kentucky a reputation for greatness. But there are distinctions to know between bourbon and Kentucky straight bourbon.

Kentucky straight bourbon can be labeled as such when:

• The spirit is made (aged and distilled) in Kentucky.
• The distillate ages in new charred oak barrels.
• The finished bourbon has spent a minimum of two years stored.
• The bourbon must be 40% ABV or 80 Proof.
• Kentucky straight bourbon cannot contain any additional flavors or colors.

Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey is an exception to these rules, requiring:

• The whiskey aging process takes place only in un-charred oak barrels.
• It’s made from a mash with at least 51% corn grain. 
• Mash must be 80% corn for it to be labeled corn whiskey.

The exact history of Kentucky straight bourbon is still unclear. However, it’s widely accepted that early 18th-century settlers in the area used their excess corn to produce whiskey. Later, distillers began aging that corn whiskey in charred oak barrels, resulting in what is now known as Kentucky straight bourbon.

Meet Lucky 7 Bourbon

There’s no shortage of great bourbons hailing from Kentucky. But if you’re looking for a unique and legendary Kentucky straight bourbon to try, meet Lucky 7 Bourbon.

You’ll spot a Lucky Seven bourbon immediately with its distinctive bottle.

• High gloss black beachwood cap.
• High-quality natural cork shank from Portugal.
• Harlequin pattern branding.
• Peel back ticket label with a QR code for featured film reveals.

The Mission of Lucky Seven Spirits

The brand is quirky and fun, classy and curious. And the mission is to bring together a variety of complex qualities to enhance each flavor profile. Lucky Seven Spirits are self-proclaimed connoisseurs, professionals, bourbon fanatics, and top producers. Their slogan, “Let the good times roll on,” fits this brand to a tee.

How Michael Lahalih and John Pals Got Started

The two co-founders, John Pals, and Michael Lahalih, also happen to be best friends. Since their college days, the duo have always shared a bond of bourbon and cinema. The Lucky 7 namesake is said to come from the infamous Stage 7 in Hollywood, where so many award-winning movies were filmed. 

Browse the Lucky 7 Collection of Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Visit Lucky 7 online and browse the available bourbon varieties and blends. Each offers a unique bourbon-sipping experience, and you’ll likely want to try them all. 

• The Hold Up
• The Holiday Toast
• The Proprietor (14 Years Aged)
• The Proprietor (6 Years Aged)
• The Frenchman
• The Workhorse
• The Jokester (Retired)

How to Enjoy Your First Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Every bourbon enthusiast will have unique preferences for how best to enjoy a great Kentucky straight bourbon. If you’re just starting out, these are among the most popular methods:

On the Rocks

Enjoy your first Kentucky straight bourbon on ice or on the rocks for a chilled sipping experience. As the ice slowly melts, it will tame down some of the flavors, which may be appealing to first-timers.

Straight or Neat

For many true Kentucky straight bourbon fans, the ONLY way to enjoy it is in its most natural form – straight or neat. Let all the intricacies and profile notes come together as the producers intended. Serve at room temperature from a glass or chill it by shaking it with ice and pouring it into another glass.

In a Cocktail

Elevate some of your favorite cocktails with Kentucky straight bourbon! Popular craft cocktails that call for bourbon include:

• Old Fashioned
• Mint Julep
• Kentucky Derby
• Manhattan

FAQs About Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Have additional questions about Kentucky straight bourbon and whiskey? Check out these FAQs.

What qualifies as Kentucky straight bourbon?

Kentucky straight bourbon has to hail from Kentucky and age for a minimum of two years. Bourbon ages in charred oak barrels, while corn whiskey ages in un-charred or used barrels.

What does straight bourbon taste like?

Kentucky straight bourbon will present oak notes at the first sip, hinting at sweet corn and rye. The aromas can be floral, with rich vanilla and tobacco leaf hues. The finish is always warm and long.

What other brands are straight bourbon whiskey?

Add these straight bourbon and whiskey brands to your must-sample list:

• Wild Turkey 101
• Evan Williams Single Barrel
• Angel’s Envy
• Jim Beam
• Four Roses Yellow Label
• Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon

What bourbon distilleries are in Kentucky?

Kentucky is home to several legendary bourbon makers and distillery tours. Seeing for yourself just how intricate this distilling and aging process is will provide you with a unique understanding and appreciation. A few of the most popular Kentucky distilleries include:

• Woodford Reserve
• Wilderness Trail
• Wild Turkey
• Rabbit Hole
• Town Branch
• Stitzel-Weller
• Maker’s Mark
• Old Forester
• Michter’s
• James B. Beam
• Lux Row
• Heaven Hill
• Evan Williams
• Four Roses
• Green River
• Bardstown Bourbon Co.
• Angel’s Envy
• Bulleit

Discover Your New Favorite Kentucky Straight Whiskey or Bourbon with Distillery Nearby

If you’re just starting out as a bourbon enthusiast, begin your sipping journey with a true classic, the Kentucky straight bourbon. Lucky Seven Bourbon is just one of many producers, but it is definitely one to sample first. And when you’re ready to hit the road to discover great distillery tours near you, start right here at Distillery Nearby! Find all the cultural, historical, and pertinent details about your favorite craft spirits. Let us guide you through all the best distillery adventures to enjoy them!