The Most American Thing With Ze Frenchy Name

Bourbon, that is. Sonny weighs in with a remarkable-sounding spirit I’ve never tasted nor even heard of. Excellent! Forthwith, my notes on rednectar:

* Blanton’s is a favorite — bold but not too fiery.

* But if you do want fiery, Wild Turkey — high proof, of course — is the hands-down winner. If you want burn-in-hell fiery, reach for the Fighting Cock, but you better have something serious to cry over.

* Woodford Reserve has always tasted, to this palate, like someone left out about one finger of backwash and melted ice in a SOLO cup. Seek refreshment elsewhere.

* Knob Creek ain’t doin’ it for me neither.

* Bulleit and Maker’s occupy the solid middle ground. They are the decent, God-fearing Americans of bourbon. But Maker’s is still cooler.

* Want some awful fun? Try Old Grand-Dad. It’s orange.

Well, that’s not the greatest list of all time — there are a lot of brands I’d like to get to know a little better (Pappy van Winkle, Sonny’s Weller). But it should keep you busy, indoors or out.