It’s not the norm to wake up early to crack open a beer or pop a bottle of wine at brunch. But, it should be.
There are so many different varieties of alcoholic beverages to discover and enjoy sipping on with some friends. One that is making headlines more than ever before is whiskey. Perhaps you haven’t yet dipped your toes into discovering what whiskey tasting is all about.
Not sure you fully understand the art of whiskey making? Wondering where it comes from, what it tastes like, and what not to do when drinking it? Then keep reading to find out how is whiskey made.
Combine the Whiskey Ingredients and Ferment the Base
Whiskey is a spirit made from fermented grain mash. The grains are typically barley, rye, wheat, and corn. The first step in making whiskey is to combine the ingredients and ferment the base.
The fermentation process converts the sugars in the grain into alcohol. This can be done naturally by adding yeast to the mash or artificially using a starter culture.
Straining the Mixture
When it comes to making a fine whiskey, straining the mixture is of utmost importance. This is what gives whiskey tasting a unique flavor and character.
There are a few different methods that can be used to strain a whiskey mixture. The most common is to use a cheesecloth or coffee filter. This will remove any large pieces of sediment that may be present.
Another method is to use a strainer that is specifically designed for whiskey. This will allow the smaller particles to be removed, giving the final product a smoother flavor.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to take your time and strain the mixture thoroughly. This is the key to making a great-tasting whiskey.
Distilling and Aging the Liquor
The distillation removes impurities and unwanted flavors from the grain mash, resulting in a purer form of alcohol. The distilling process also concentrates the alcohol content, making whiskey a strong and potent drink.
The typical whiskey distillation process begins with the fermented grain mash being heated in a large still. As the mash begins to boil, the alcohol vaporizes and rises to the top of the still. The alcohol vapor is then passed through a cooling system, condensing it into a liquid form.
The now-alcoholic liquid is collected and stored in whiskey barrels, ages, and develops its characteristic flavor.
Whiskey ages in wooden barrels, and the type of barrel and the length of the aging process affect the final taste of the whiskey. The longer the whiskey is aged, the more it absorbs the wood flavors, including vanilla, caramel, and even smoke.
Diluting Process
Whiskey is typically diluted with water to reduce the alcohol content. This is done by adding water to the whiskey and then redistilling it. The diluting process also allows the flavors of the whiskey to marry and mellow, resulting in a smoother taste.
The whiskey is then placed in bottles, which are then sealed and labeled.
Explore How Is Whiskey Made
Whiskey is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed in many ways.
Whether you like it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, there is a whiskey for you. While the production of whiskey can vary slightly between distilleries, the general process is the same. If you’re curious about how is whiskey made, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the steps involved in its production.
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