Whiskey and Bourbon basics Flashcards
(12 cards)
What must Bourbon contain in it’s mash bill?
51% Corn. The remaining grains can be a mix of barley, rye, or wheat.
What must Rye Whiskey contain in it’s mash bill?
At least 51% Rye for American Rye Whiskey. Canadian Rye whiskey may not have a specific grain requirement but is often made with rye.
Scotch whiskey must be aged for? In what? What is it primarily made of?
Three years, in oak barrels. Primarily made from malted and unmalted barley, yeast.
Irish Whiskey must be distilled and aged where?
Ireland
Bourbon must meet what criteria to be labeled as a bourbon?
- Aged in new charred oak barrels
- Distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol by volume)
- Entered into the barrel at no more than 125 proof (62.5% Alc by Vol)
- Bottled at no less than 80 Proof (40% Alc by Volume)
- The mash bill must be 51% Corn.
Tasting notes in Bourbon
Typically has a sweeter profile due to high corn content. Common notes of Caramel, Vanilla and oak. the charring of the barrel contributes to its rich character.
Bourbon variations
Straight bourbon, small-batch bourbon, single barrel bourbon, wheated bourbon.
Scotch Vs Irish Whiskey
Scotch Whiskey is made exclusively from malted barley. Irish Whiskey can be made from malted and unmalted barley
Rye Whiskey tasting characteristics
Spicy and Robust chatacter, such as Anise, Black Pepper and Clove.
Bourbon locations
Must be produced in the US to be legally labeled as bourbon. Mostly associated with Kentucky due to it’s birthplace of bourbon.
Irish Whiskey Tasting Notes
Lighter and fruitier profile compared to other whiskeys, such as citrus zest and notes of fruit
Scotch Whiskey tasting notes
Smoke, a signature flavor which comes from drying barley without burning peat. Leather and grassiness. You can also get some lighter and creamier notes depending on the scotch.
