Is Bourbon an Acquired Taste?

The only tastes worth having are acquired tastes. — Gilbert Adair

As I entered my college years, I was intrigued by the sight of my now wife's Grandpa and stepdad enjoying their bourbon neat. Their ritual seemed the epitome of cool, sparking my curiosity and eventual love for bourbon.

The First Encounter

My first sip was a revelation - not of flavor, but of fire. It was a moment of intense burning, yet I felt committed to the experience, determined to finish my glass. This initial shock was the first step in a journey towards appreciating bourbon.

Exploring the Sweet Palette

I began with the sweeter, softer bourbons like Maker's Mark. My taste buds started noticing the nuanced flavors - the vanilla hints in some, the citrus undertones in others. This exploration was the beginning of understanding bourbon's complexity.

Venturing into Higher Proof

As my palate matured, I sought out higher-proof bourbons. The once overwhelming burn had become less intrusive, revealing an even richer tapestry of flavors. This evolution in taste marked a significant milestone in my bourbon journey.

The Allure of Bourbon

Bourbon's allure isn't just in its taste; it's wrapped in layers of culture, collectability, history, and as Walker Percy describes in his essay Bourbon, Neat, the aesthetic of bourbon. These elements, combined with memorable times shared with loved ones, deepened my appreciation for this spirit.

Is Bourbon an Acquired Taste?

Yes, bourbon often is an acquired taste. Here's why:

• Cultural Significance: The tradition and stories behind bourbon add depth to each sip.
• Flavor Complexity: The spirit's intricate flavor profile evolves with each drink, teaching your palate to discern subtle notes.
• Personal Growth: As you explore, your taste preferences can shift, leading to a more profound enjoyment.

Recommended Starting Points

If you're new to bourbon or looking to deepen your appreciation:

• Maker's Mark - A smooth entry with a sweet finish.
• Weller Special Reserve - Hard to find but worth it for its gentle spice.
• Woodford Reserve - Offers a balanced profile for beginners.

Discover Your Bourbon

Embark on your bourbon journey with confidence. Use the NEAT: Whiskey Finder app to:

• Locate exclusive bottles near you.
• Rate and review your bourbon experiences.
• Connect with a community of bourbon enthusiasts.

Start your adventure with bourbon today. DownloadNEAT: Whiskey Finder! and let us help you discover which bourbon will become your signature pour.

Engagement

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