Bourbon: The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of an American Whiskey

Fred Minnick traces bourbon's complete history from the 1700s, when Irish, Scottish, and French settlers established stills in the New World, through its modern resurgence. The book examines how this amber-colored spirit became deeply embedded in American culture and history, documenting its role in the nation's cultural and political development—including Congressional whiskey-protection laws and consumer demand for rare bottles. Minnick investigates the identity of bourbon's inventor, examining historical figures championed as creators over time, including Daniel Boone's cousin and Baptist minister Elijah Craig. Using new research and previously unseen documentation, he presents findings on who likely deserves credit for developing the sweet corn liquor now known as bourbon. The book includes more than 100 illustrations and photos.