Bourbon, a major player in the whiskey world, is an American spirit predominantly made from corn, often blended with wheat, rye, and barley in its mash. To be classified as bourbon, it must contain at least 51% corn, be distilled to no more than 80% ABV, and aged in new charred oak barrels. These specific aging conditions and corn content impart a distinctively sweet flavor and smooth texture, setting bourbon apart from other whiskies.