BOURBON, BY THE BOOK According to federal law, bourbon whiskey must be made from a fermented mash containing at least 51 percent corn and aged at least two years in new, charred oak barrels. Although it does not have to be made in Kentucky to be called "bourbon," 95 percent or more of the world's production comes from the Commonwealth.
AH, THE POTENT SWEETS... Bourbon balls - rich, bourbon-flavored candies covered in chocolate - are a sweet holiday treat. We tasted three brands - Rebecca Ruth ($9.99/8 ounces), Maker's Mark ($15.99/8 ounces) and Woodford Reserve ($11.99/ 8 ounces). We preferred the Woodford Reserve bourbon balls - smooth and mellow centers covered with fine dark chocolate, topped with a pecan. Many liquor stores and gourmet shops carry bourbon balls. We found our test brands at the Party Source in Bellevue.
Chuck Martin