Bourbon Vanilla is a generic term for Vanilla planifolia, and is the most commonly used variety in vanilla extract. Vanilla planifolia stock originated in Mexico, vanilla's birthplace, but cuttings were taken to other tropical countries in the 1700s. In the 1800s, the French developed large plantations on Reunion, known at the time as the Ile de Bourbon, hence the name Bourbon. Although Bourbon vanilla extract contains alcohol, it is not made from Bourbon whiskey.