Bourbon Newbie

Bourbon Newbie. Help out an eager learner!

Admittedly, I am a part owner of a wine vineyard in Williamette Valley. So bear with me on my knowledge of wine but lack of awareness about bourbon! Brand new to bourbon after a recent work trip. I recently had a few bourbon cocktails when out in NYC, and to my surprise- I had no where near the ‘hangover’ symptoms that I typically get with vodka, red wine, etc. To my surprise, I slept just fine? I’m mid 40s and female, so if you know… you KNOW! Is this just in my head, or do others find this to be true?

Grabbed a bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream and 100 ML of Jim Beam, as both were on sale at my local store. I’m not huge for mixing spirits w/ soda, so would I do these on the rocks.. in a martini.. what would you suggest? I am a tea lover, so a hot toddy that isn’t hard to make and delicious would be amazing. I just have no idea how to make one.

OK pros, what do I need to know about the basics of bourbon? Is there a way to differ it from say whiskey or scotch? How should I start in terms of purchases?