Which American whiskey is legally made from a mash containing at least 51% corn?

Bourbon whiskey is legally made from a mash containing at least 51% corn. United States regulations also require bourbon to be distilled to no more than 80% alcohol by volume and matured in new, charred oak containers.

Corn gives bourbon its characteristic foundation, but the remaining grains influence the final style. Rye often adds peppery spice, wheat can produce a softer profile, and malted barley helps provide enzymes for converting starches during mashing.

Bourbon may be produced anywhere in the United States; it is not legally restricted to Kentucky. Kentucky became closely associated with the style because of its long distilling history, water sources, transport connections and large-scale production.

Bourbon is different from corn whiskey, which has a mash containing at least 80% corn and follows different barrel rules. It is also different from rye whiskey, whose mash must contain at least 51% rye. The grain percentage identifies the category, while maturation and production rules complete the legal definition.