214 years was a long time ago: Think colonists with powdered wigs and wooden teeth who had to drink alcohol in the hopes that it would combat the effects of unsanitised water, poor living conditions and fortify their diets.

During this time, immigrants from Germany named Boehm came to America. They later changed the spelling to Beam, and fortunately for us, seven generations of Beams would - and still do - ensure that their name would remain synonymous with the world's finest and best selling bourbon.

Their Bourbon: When Jacob Beam cooked up his first batch of bourbon back in 1795, debts were settled with duels. The American Dream was still taking shape. And you added more horsepower by, well, adding another horse.

A lot has changed over the past 214 years. But at Jim Beam®, there proud to say that things have remained more or less the same. They spent all that time painstakingly and passionately perfecting Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. They are very proud that the world’s finest bourbon is still made by the same family, pretty much the same way. That’s how it’s been for seven generations.

Which is not to say that they are stuck in the past. They have added to Jacob’s first creation—now known as Jim Beam Bourbon—by crafting a whole family of bourbons. Some are aged longer to add a little more character and complexity. One of their whiskeys is filtered through charcoal for a more rounded and mature taste. Another offers a spicy rye flavour. And a few are made in small batches, the way bourbon used to be made. They can be light and delicate. Creamy and elegant. Smooth. Balanced. Chewy. Crisp. In fact, we’re convinced there’s a bourbon for everyone.

So enjoy. And have fun finding the one that's right for you.