there is really two types of spirits, which applies for bourbon...

there is really two types of spirits, which applies for bourbon and whiskey.. there are gulping spirits and drinking spirits.

a gulping spirit is one you shot or throw down fast. as you dont drink this slowly then easier made spirits were intended, ie stright out the still.

drinking whiskeys are ones you want to enjoy drinking slower, due to this more time is taken so they age them in oak barrles and charcoal filter it, this removes the harsh tastes from it and introduces smoother flavour. This is why your gentleman jacks, black labels etc cost more.

in todays society, gupling spirits has now changed and is sold to teenagers and whimps who dilute their spirits in coke. like your jim beam and cokes, and jhony red and coke cans.

the aged stuff is really intended for drinking neat or on the rocks, but a lot of people still destroy this drinking with coke as they no doubt did this with the gulping spirits when they were younger.

the modern world has totally ruined alcoholism i recon.. bring back the hip flasks with your neat drinking whiskey that your mrs would give you to help you get through your day at work..