JIM BEAM KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY

 Jim Beam Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is the best selling bourbon in the world and it’s also very affordable. What’s more, it’s 80 proof, and it’s been around since 1795. The mash bill may be a family secret but the brand is not shy about touting their line-up of flavored bourbons, including Jim Beam Apple, Vanilla, Maple, Peach, Kentucky Fire, Honey and Red Stag.

So, if you’re looking for an inexpensive bourbon with the distinction of being the best selling bourbon in the world, this is the one for you.

Popularity has its own appeal for some, and others may want a bourbon they can guiltlessly use for mixed drinks or recipes. When it comes to Jim Beam’s taste, La Bourbonessa finds it on the light side, and that includes appearing lighter in color next to its friends on the bourbon shelf. It may lack richness, complexity and character, but, sometimes you might just feel like a little straight, inexpensive bourbon—just like you feel like a plain slice of pizza. This bourbon certainly has its place.

Since it’s so attractively priced, Jim Beam Kentucky straight Bourbon would also be an excellent choice, if you, like many budding bakers during Covid times, are filling your hours trying out new recipes for cookies and cakes.

Recently, I had the chance to make my own vanilla extract and I was surprised how well it turned out.

It’s easy to make, though it takes a few weeks for the vanilla to infuse into the bourbon.

You’ll need a small bottle with a tight lid, a couple of fresh vanilla pods, and bourbon.

HOMEMADE BOURBON VANILLA EXTRACT

1. Pour the bourbon into a small bottle.

2. Slit the vanilla pods lengthwise to expose the seeds (I use several pods to a bottle. The more pods, the stronger the extract will become) and add to the bottle, trimming them to fit if necessary.

3. Close the bottle and give it a shake.

4. Keep the bottle in a dark cabinet and shake it occasionally. Open it up to taste and smell the extract from time to time. When you’ve got the right amount of vanilla flavor in the bourbon base, you can start to use your extract. You’ll be pleased with the results.

Barbara Chapman, La Bourbonessa

Browse all Jim Beam Bourbons