Learning how to make a good Alcohol Substitution For Bourbon is what we’re here to get down and dirty within this post. Bourbon is known worldwide for many reasons. It is most commonly used to make the drink we all know as ‘Old Fashioned’, but there are many other uses for it than just that one drink.
What is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a type of American whiskey, named after Bourbon County, Kentucky. It’s produced in the U.S. and Canada but must adhere to several legal requirements, including aging in new charred oak barrels.
Bourbon is made from at least 51 percent corn, aged in new charred oak barrels (charring the inside of the barrel provides more flavor), and bottled at no less than 80 proof. The other ingredients are rye grain and malted barley.
Bourbon is distilled at 160 proof or less, which means that when it comes out of the still it’s about twice as strong as what you buy at the liquor store. It then goes into barrels for aging for two years or more at no higher than 125 proof, which means that when it comes out it has mellowed considerably from its original strength.
Best Alcohol Substitutes for Bourbon
Bourbon is a type of whiskey made in the United States. It’s a distilled spirit made from corn, wheat, and rye. Bourbon is known for its sweet, rich flavor that comes from aging in wooden barrels. The word bourbon comes from Bourbon County, Kentucky where it was first produced in 1789.
Here are some of the best alcohol substitutes for bourbon:
1. Scotch Whiskey
Scotch is another type of whisky that can be used as an alternative to bourbon. Scotches are generally lighter than bourbons, but they still have an earthy flavor profile that makes them a suitable replacement for bourbon in cocktails like Manhattans or Old Fashioneds.
2. Irish Whiskey
Irish whiskey is another good option if you’re looking to replace bourbon. Some of the most popular brands include Jameson, Bushmills, and Tullamore Dew. Irish whiskey is generally lighter than bourbon and has more floral notes than other types of whiskey.
3. Canadian Whisky
Canadian whisky is a type of whisky made in Canada. It’s an alternative to Bourbon for those who can’t drink it due to allergies or other reasons. It has a strong rye content and is distilled twice, unlike most American whiskies which are distilled only once.
4. Japanese Whisky
Japanese whisky is often referred to as “rice whisky”. This is because the majority of Japanese whisky is made from rice. Some other whiskies are also made from barley and wheat but they’re still considered “rice whiskies”.
5. American Rye Whiskey
American rye whiskey is made from at least 51 percent rye grain and aged in charred new oak barrels for at least two years. It must be distilled in the United States and bottled at 80 proof or higher (40% ABV).
6. Grain Alcohol
Grain alcohol is the most common substitute for bourbon, although it’s also found in other liquors. Grain alcohol is essentially pure ethanol, so it has very little flavor other than that of pure alcohol, which can be overpowering in some drinks. It’s also very strong, with a higher percentage of alcohol than many other types of liquor.
7. Tennessee Whiskey
A type of straight whiskey that must be distilled at least 51% from corn, stored in new charred oak barrels, and filtered through sugar maple charcoal before being barreled for aging. It must also be stored in Tennessee for at least two years before being sold.
8. Rye whiskey
A type of straight whiskey that must be distilled at least 51% from a mash containing at least 51% rye. It must be distilled twice (or more) and aged in new charred oak barrels for at least two years before being sold.
9. Cognac
Cognac is a type of brandy made from grapes. It’s typically aged in oak barrels and has a very distinct flavor profile. It’s an excellent substitute for bourbon because it also comes from whiskey and is sweeter than most other options..
10. Vodka
The best alcohol substitute for bourbon is vodka. Unlike bourbon, which comes from a grain mash, vodka is made from grains that have been distilled until they are nearly pure ethanol and then redistilled again with flavored ingredients added during distillation or afterward. Vodka has a neutral flavor and color which makes it perfect as an alcohol substitute for most cocktails as well as in cooking recipes that call for liquor or wine.
11. Brandy
Brandy is a distilled spirit created from wine grapes or other fruits. It has a strong flavor similar to Scotch whisky and can be used as an alternative to bourbon in many cocktails.
12. Gin
Gin is also a distilled spirit made from grain or potatoes but flavored with juniper berries, citrus peels, herbs, and spices such as coriander seeds, angelica root, or long pepper. The most popular types of gin are London dry gin (which has no added sugar) and Plymouth gin (which does).
Non-Alcoholic Substitutes for Bourbon
Bourbon is a type of whiskey made in the United States. It’s usually made from corn, but sometimes wheat, rye, or barley. It’s aged in new oak barrels and often has a high percentage of alcohol by volume (ABV).
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic substitute for bourbon, try one of these options:
1. Straight Whiskey
Straight whiskey is aged in new oak barrels for at least two years, but it doesn’t have to be labeled as “straight.” The term also applies to unblended whiskey that has been aged for four years or more and bottled at 80 proof or higher (40% ABV). Straight whiskeys can be straight bourbon whiskey, straight rye whiskey, or even straight malt whiskey. However, most are made with corn as the main ingredient.
2. Coffee Liqueur
Try pairing this coffee liqueur with soda water to make a mocktail similar to a Manhattan or Old Fashioned cocktail!
3. Root Beer
Root beer is another great substitute for bourbon because it has similar flavors such as cinnamon, vanilla, and cloves. It also has notes of caramel and molasses as well as a slight alcohol burn on the finish. Try adding root beer to hot chocolate for an adult treat!
4. Sparkling Water
Add a splash of sparkling water to any drink recipe that calls for bourbon to give it just enough fizz without all the booze!
5. Pure Maple Syrup
A half-and-half mixture of maple syrup and water makes a good substitute for bourbon in sweet drinks like hot cider or hot toddies. The sweetness of pure maple syrup balances well with the sourness of lime juice or lemon juice.
6. Bourbon Vanilla Coffee Creamer
This is an ideal substitute for any of your favorite coffee drinks. It’s a great way to enjoy a sweet treat without having to worry about calories or sugar content. This cream also adds a unique flavor profile that you won’t find anywhere else.
7. Cherry Cola Soda
If you love the taste of cherry cola but want something non-alcoholic, then this soda is perfect for you! It has all of the same ingredients as regular cherry cola but without the alcohol content or calories associated with it.
8. Dark Chocolate Bars
There’s nothing like dark chocolate on its own or paired with something else sweet like ice cream or caramel sauce! You can even make your own at home with this easy recipe.
Favorite Bourbon Recipes
Bourbon recipes are the perfect addition to any party. Whether you’re entertaining for the holidays or just want to treat yourself to a delicious drink, these delicious bourbon recipes will have you feeling festive in no time.
You may think of bourbon as a man’s drink, but these recipes are great for everyone. Our top picks include:
1. Bourbon Ice Cream Float
A classic ice cream float with a twist! Bourbon is added to vanilla ice cream and cream soda for a bold flavor combination that will leave you wanting more.
2. Kentucky Bourbon Pecan Pie
There’s nothing like a slice of homemade pie on Thanksgiving Day! This pecan pie recipe includes Kentucky Bourbon in the filling and crust for an extra rich taste that is sure to be your new favorite holiday dessert.
3. Bourbon Chicken
Chicken thighs are marinated in Kentucky Bourbon before being baked until tender and juicy. Serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes and broccoli for an unforgettable meal that everyone will love!
4. Kentucky Derby Cupcakes
These cupcakes are perfect for your Kentucky Derby party! A simple vanilla batter is topped with chocolate frosting before being decorated with mini marshmallows and candy-coated churros (or pretzels).
5. Bourbon Steak Sauce
This is my go-to steak sauce. It’s easy to make and tastes delicious on top of your favorite cut of meat. If you want your sauce even spicier, add in some chili powder or cayenne pepper!
6. Bourbon Orange Sweet Tea
This is one of the most popular drinks at our house on hot summer days! This sweet tea recipe has just three ingredients — one being bourbon! You can also add in some lemonade or limeade to give it a little extra flavor if you want something more refreshing than sweet.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to make Bourbon?
It takes about two years for your favorite bottle of whiskey to be ready for consumption. The first step toward creating bourbon begins with grain — usually, corn — which is mashed and fermented before distillation takes place. During this process, the mash will often contain other grains like rye or wheat (or both).
2. How do I drink it?
Sip it neat or on the rocks, or add it to cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan. If you want to get fancy, try a Mint Julep — it’s not as tough as you think!
3. How much should I spend on my first bottle?
It depends on what you’re looking for. For example: if you want a great everyday drinking bourbon that won’t break the bank, spend $20-$30 on Bulleit Bourbon ($29). If you want something more complex that will age well and develop additional flavors over time, try Buffalo Trace ($33). And if you have a few extra bucks to spend and want something truly special, buy Knob Creek Small Batch ($50).
4. How long does bourbon last?
Bourbon ages for a minimum of two years in charred new oak barrels and must be at least 80 proof (40 percent alcohol by volume). Most bourbons are aged longer than that. The longer it ages, the more distinctively rich and smooth it becomes.
5. What types of bourbons are there?
There are four main styles of bourbon: Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Kentucky Barrel Proof Bourbon, Wheated Bourbon, and Straight Rye Whiskey. Each style has its own distinct flavor profile and characteristics that make it unique from the others.
6. What is a barrel-proof whiskey?
Barrel Proof Bourbon is a term used to describe the alcohol content of a particular batch of whiskey or spirit. The actual proof number may vary depending on how long it’s been aged or what type of barrel it was aged in. For example, Maker’s Mark® Original 90° Proof Bourbon has an alcohol content of 45% ABV (90°). This means that one U.S. gallon of Maker’s Mark would contain approximately 12 bottles (750 ml).
In Conclusion
Alcohol substitutes for Bourbon can be a healthy choice for someone looking to cut calories, carbohydrates, or sugars. A champagne substitute would be a diet citrus sparkling water flavored with fresh orange juice and maybe some fresh raspberries along with slices of orange. Bourbon is an alcohol that has been made for generations and is also renowned for having Kentucky fame as well. It is easy to make it yourself in the comfort of home.