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Bourbon is a type of American whiskey produced primarily from corn.  Only whiskey from the United States can be called Bourbon, though it is understood that it is predominantly a product of Kentucky.  Originating from a region called Old Bourbon – what is now known as Bourbon County, Kentucky – takes its name from the royal French family house of Bourbon.

The stipulations for a distillate being designated bourbon are as follows (according to the Federal Standards of Identity for Distilled Spirits):

• Can only be made in the United States
• Must be made of a grain mixture with no less than 51% corn
• Aged solely in charred, new American oak barrels
• Distilled to no more than 160 proof, or 80% alcohol
• Cannot enter the barrel higher than 125 proof
• Cannot be bottled higher than 160 proof
• If labeled as straight bourbon, it must meet the above requirements, have been aged at least 2 years in barrel, and have no added flavors, colors or spirits.
• If labeled as blended bourbon, it may have added flavor, color or spirits, yet still must be at least 51% straight bourbon.