What does it indicate when whiskey is bottled at 80° or higher?

Bottling whiskey at 80 proof or higher indicates that it meets certain criteria regarding its alcohol content. Specifically, to be labeled as bourbon, the whiskey must be distilled to no more than 160 proof, and it must be bottled at no less than 80 proof. Therefore, whiskey bottled at 80° or higher satisfies the minimum legal requirement for bourbon. This is a fundamental aspect of bourbon classification, demonstrating its identity as a spirit that adheres to established regulatory standards.

In understanding the context of the other options, while Tennessee Whiskey has its own requirements, being bottled at 80° does not specifically classify it as such; that classification comes from distinct production methods. The term "high proof" is generally reserved for spirits that exceed 100 proof, not simply those at 80 proof or higher. Similarly, aging whiskey typically does not directly correlate with proof level; therefore, the statement regarding aging is not applicable in this context.