American whiskey separates into clear classifications. To be bourbon is legally made from at least 51 percent corn and it must be new charred oak. Rye whiskey substitutes at least 51 percent rye, giving a sharper character. Tennessee includes maple charcoal mellowing before the barrel.
Limited release whiskey refers to releases supplied in restricted quantities to retailers. Demand far outstrips supply, which drives secondary market pricing. Expressions including Buffalo Trace’s limited range sit at the top of that market. Bottle provenance is important when buying.
Sourcing rare whiskey online calls for greater caution than buying an everyday bottle. Check where the bottle came from, above all on expensive limited releases. Fill level and the condition of the seal tell you about how the bottle was kept. Established retailers photograph the specific bottle you receive rather than using stock images.
Building a whiskey collection is most rewarding where you buy what you enjoy and not market value. Begin from a category and broaden from there. How bottles are kept is often overlooked – store upright, in stable conditions and B&W Reserve at consistent temperature. Keeping records preserves value.
