Bourbon (/bɜːrbən/) is a type of American whiskey, a barrel-aged distilled liquor made primarily from corn. The name derives from the French Bourbon dynasty, although the precise inspiration is uncertain; contenders include Bourbon County in Kentucky and Bourbon Street in New Orleans, both of which are named after the dynasty. The name "Bourbon" was not applied until the 1850s, and the Kentucky etymology was not advanced until the 1870s. Bourbon has been distilled since the 18th century. Although bourbon may be made anywhere in the United States, it is strongly associated with the American South in general, and with Kentucky in particular. Born in Kentucky, bourbon has been the USA's national spirit since 1964.

Source: Wikipedia