Bourbon, Straight: The Uncut and Unfiltered Story of American Whiskey

Rating:
Summary: A great read for bourbon lovers...
Review: Book/Cover: Burgundy-colored trade paperback. The simple and straightforward front cover displays the title as well as a yellow-graphic depicting a bourbon warehouse. The back cover provides a summary of the book's content as well as a short biographical sketch of Charles Cowdery.

Initial: On taking an initial flip through the book, I am immediately drawn to the insightful words that make up Chuck's signature and inscription, instantly giving this book a special place in the personal library. After doing so much via the computer these days (work, audio books via the web, e-magazines, etc.), this book is delightful to hold. The serif typeface (courier?) is incredibly readable and inviting, drawing me in to further explore this book.

Taste: After an initial read of the introduction, and a few of the whiskey reviews that make up the later pages in the book, I am delighted. The book thus far is what Chuck has promised in his introduction, straight and simple. A mix of personal anecdotes and experiences, history, and humor make the read delightful thus far.

Finish: While I've actually just begun this book, the honest and straightforward approach sticks in my head, pushing me to find time to garner my next taste of this book.

Overall: Well-done Chuck. I look forward to learning more about whiskey in America. Chuck's honest approach seems to be a great place to start.


Rating:
Summary: The Master of Bourbon Speaks
Review: Chuck Cowdery is probably the most respected authority on bourbon outside of the trade. And how a guy who lives in Chicago and not Kentucky has achieved this recognition is a mystery to me! He is devoted to the subject and extremely knowledgeable about it. I think this book is a "must read" for anyone who loves fine bourbon. In addition to increasing your knowledge about bourbon you will find it a "good read". And you will find some very informative information about most of today's fine bourbons.

Rating:
Summary: Going to Church
Review: If you want to see advertising for bourbons, this isn't the book for you. But if you want the story of the bourbon industry, then this is like going to church. You'll get the plain and simple message from the author. This book is now part of my liquor library as the new starting point for my knowledge of bourbon. Enjoyed it, five stars.

Rating:
Summary: Aged in the wood.
Review: It isn't hard to tell when a book is written from piles of research material strung together in a daunting mass. It is equally evident when an entire field of study, wed in the wood, is melded through a lifetime of experience, aged into a narrative that flows so naturally, it issues from the very core of the author. The latter is the case here. From a complex history of chemistry and business decisions is distilled a work that is both complete and readable. Mr. Cowdrey is on his turf here, and it shows. Observations in "Bourbon, Straight" are certain, forceful and backed up not just by facts - but by thoughtful deduction only years can (but do not always) provide. That said, the book is no polemic. The wit and dryly humorous wisdom are winning. When describing one particular whisky, Cowdrey murmers "They possess that ineffable (and much overrated) quality known as smoothness." Highly recommended.

Rating:
Summary: The Best
Review: This book is a joy to read as it meanders through the history of bourbon and the many characters that have created that history to the technical aspects of creating a fine bourbon. It also includes many helpful tips on how to enjoy and taste bourbon. This is the book to have for those interested in the subject of the true American Spirit.