Bourbon is a uniquely American liquor. It is intimately linked with the state of Kentucky, where all bourbon is crafted. To try to help people appreciate the incredible variety of bourbon, but also get a sense of the place that makes bourbon so special, a number of distillers came together to create the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, which is more of a taste odyssey than a physical tour.

Whiskey is one of your bar’s most essential spirits. In fact, you should probably have at least three whiskeys on hand: a bourbon, a scotch, and another variety (such as Irish whiskey, Tennessee whiskey, or rye).

Ah, whiskey. Few spirits are so complex in their taste and so diverse in their varieties. Although scotch has long been famed for its diversity, its American cousin bourbon has as much history and unique character. You just have to approach it with the knowledge of what you’re tasting.