AMERICAN WHISKEY

There are four major whisk(e)y producing countries, America, Ireland, Scotland and Canada, each of whom produce distinct whisk(e)ys. Whisk(e)y itself is a vast topic and each of these types of whisky have great and long historys. The article attempts to highlight some of the individual histories, distilling process and characteristics. We encourage you to read some of the many detailed books on the subject and experiment with whisk(e)y and learn to taste and appreciate their differences.

AMERICAN WHISKEY

BOURBON

According to Federal regulations, for an American whiskey to be labeled as bourbon it must be made from a mash containing between 51% and 79% corn. If the corn content is higher, the product must be designated as corn whiskey. Bourbon is a straight whiskey and, according to the law, must be distilled at 160 proof (80% alcohol) or less and must be aged a minimum of two years in new charred oak barrels. As a practical matter, though, most bourbon is aged at least four years and often longer. Since it is a straight whiskey, no blending is permitted and there are no additives, with the exception of water to reduce the proof.

Most bourbons are marketed as 80-proof products, but some, particularly the newer boutique, small-batch, single barrel and barrel proof products are much higher in alcohol content.

By law, bourbon can be distilled anywhere in the U.S., but the vast majority of it is produced in Kentucky, where it must be distilled and warehoused for at least one year in order to carry the "Kentucky Bourbon" designation on the label.

TENNESSEE WHISKEY

popular AMERICAN WHISKEY RECIPES

Although its grain content need only be comprised of at least 51% of any grain, corn is usually used in making Tennessee whiskey. It is made in a similar manner to sour mash bourbon but Tennessee whiskey also includes an extra step in its
production process -- the distilled spirit is filtered through maple charcoal in large, wooden vats before aging in order to remove impurities.

AMERICAN BLENDED WHISKEY

American blended whiskey is comprised of brands which have been created by carefully blending straight whiskies with grain spirits. This category once accounted for almost half of all domestically-produced whiskey consumed in the US .

By law, a blended whiskey must contain a minimum of 20% straight whiskey. A premium brand may contain as many as 75 different straight whiskies and grain neutral spirits. The purpose of blending is to create a balanced, light-bodied whiskey, with a richness in taste and an individual character of its own. Balance is achieved because the blending art assembles a variety of elements into a unique and distinctive product. Another hallmark of blended whiskies is their consistency of taste.

AMERICAN WHISKEY