How to Make a Bold Smoky Bourbon at Home with Still Spirits Kentucky Bourbon

April 1, 2025

Your Go-To Guide for Making a Bolder, Smokier Bourbon at Home

There’s something wildly satisfying about making your own bourbon-style spirit. The kind of satisfaction that creeps in when you pour a glass, sit back in your favourite old chair, and think, “Yep... I made that.” Whether you're already deep into the homebrewing game or just getting your boots muddy, crafting a bold smoky bourbon at home isn't nearly as complicated as it sounds—especially with the right kit by your side.

Let me show you how you can make a knockout bottle of smoky Kentucky-style bourbon that'll impress your tastebuds and your mates using the Still Spirits Kentucky Bourbon Flavoring. This little bottle of joy brings that luscious, oaky boldness without forcing you to fork over serious dollars for top-shelf spirits. Have a gander: Still Spirits Kentucky Bourbon Flavoring is everything a home distiller dreams of—rich, smooth and incredibly rewarding. Not to mention, wildly affordable for something that yields nearly 3 whole 750 ml bottles of golden goodness. Yeah, you heard right. Three bottles that scream character and craftsmanship.

Why Make Your Own Bourbon?

You’re the kind of person who likes being hands-on—whether it’s fixing your lawnmower or slow-smoking a slab of brisket. Making your own bourbon fits right into that world. You control what goes in it, how strong it is, and that subtle smoky tweak you’ve been chasing since last year's Christmas BBQ.

Store-bought bourbons? Great, sure. But there’s a reason you felt let down last time you cracked open a bottle with more price than punch. This is about making a liquor that speaks to your style—with zero fuss and loads more flair.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Still Spirits Kentucky Bourbon Flavoring from Strathalbyn H Hardware.
A base alcohol—40% ABV distilled spirit or vodka will do the job beautifully.
A clean mixing container (a 3-litre glass demijohn and funnel works beautifully).
Bourbon bottles or jars for storage—presentation counts too!

No need to own a full-on moonshine shack out in the hills. If you’ve dabbled in distilling before and already own Still Spirits gear, you're already halfway there. This flavouring pairs best with their equipment for consistent results. Beginners? No stress. The folks at Strathalbyn H Hardware are stars when it comes to pointing you in the right direction.

How To Mix Your Smoky Delight

Here’s where the fun begins. Follow this method, relax into it, and enjoy the aroma as it hits your nose.

Start with a clean measuring container.
Add 2.25 litres of your 40% ABV base spirit (vodka works well if that's what you’ve got).
Pour in the full sachet of the Still Spirits Kentucky Bourbon Flavoring.
Give it a gentle stir—no splashing, just a nice even swirl. Treat it like you would your Nan’s gravy.
Bottle it up into three 750ml bottles (or two if you’re a bit generous with the pour).

Here’s the juicy bit—right after you mix it, it’s good to go. But letting it sit for a day or two improves the roundness of flavour. Kind of like letting your sauce rest before plating it over a homemade schnitty. It’s that extra polish.

Put the “Smoky” in Your Bourbon

Want to add more punch to the profile? Try this:

Use smoked glass-charred oak chips during fermentation to layer in a warm, sappy smoke edge.
Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke (sparingly) if you're feeling adventurous—but do a taste test first!
Store your finished spirit in a toasted oak cask for a few weeks. This deepens colour and infuses more complex wood tones.

If you’re all about finesse like I am, keep record of the ratios and tweaks you tried. Over time, you’ll have your signature house bourbon—one that’s all yours, with a hint of magic you can’t buy from a store shelf.

Why Folks Are Loving This Method

“Mate, I poured this for my father-in-law and he’s been hunting me for the recipe ever since. Smooth, sweet, bold—and best part? I didn’t break the bank.”

I’ve heard stories like this from customers and friends week after week. And honestly, they’re always surprised at how simple it is. That’s the beauty of it. You’re not just making bourbon... you’re crafting a drink that's got character—the kind of character that grows legs of its own at your next barbecue.

Your Next Weekend Project?

If you’ve ever stood staring at the commercial bourbon shelf and felt uninspired... this could be your answer. The Still Spirits Kentucky Bourbon Flavoring isn’t just another essence—it gives you all those background notes of vanilla, toasted wood and dried fruit, wrapped up in a smooth sip with just enough bite on the finish.

If you’re kicking around the idea of levelling up your spirit-making craft, swing past Strathalbyn H Hardware. Their team knows their stuff. You’ll get solid advice, plenty of elbow-room to ask questions, and a community full of folks brewing right alongside you.

Here’s your excuse to start a new batch this weekend! Happy sipping and spirited tinkering 🥃

Cheers,
Candeece