What is Sour Mash Whiskey?

Sour mash whiskey is a type of whiskey that is made using a process known as sour mashing.

In this article, we’ll explore the history, flavors, and distilling process of sour mash whiskey, as well as some popular brands and cocktails.

What is Sour Mash Whiskey?

Sour mash whiskey is a type of whiskey that is made using a process known as sour mashing.

The process involves using a portion of previously fermented mash to start a new batch of whiskey, which helps to control the pH level and prevent bacterial contamination.

This process helps to create a more consistent flavor profile and is used by many popular brands of whiskey.

History

Sour mash whiskey has been produced in the United States since the early 19th century. The process of sour mashing was developed as a way to ensure consistency in the flavor and quality of the whiskey.

The process involves using a portion of previously fermented mash to start a new batch of whiskey, which helps to control the pH level and prevent bacterial contamination.

Flavors

Sour mash whiskey has a unique flavor profile that is often described as smooth and mellow.

The sour mashing process helps to create a more consistent flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. Some popular brands of sour mash whiskey include:

1. Jack Daniel’s – one of the most popular brands of sour mash whiskey, Jack Daniel’s is made using a proprietary sour mashing process that has been used since the company’s founding in 1866.
2. Jim Beam – another popular brand of sour mash whiskey, Jim Beam is made using a sour mash process that has been used for over 200 years.
3. Wild Turkey – known for its bold and spicy flavor, Wild Turkey is made using a sour mash process that helps to create a more consistent flavor profile.

Distilling Process

The distilling process for sour mash whiskey is similar to that of other types of whiskey but with a few key differences.

The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Mash Preparation – the first step in the distilling process is to prepare the mash, which is typically made from a combination of grains, such as corn, rye, and barley.
2. Fermentation – the mash is then fermented using yeast, which converts the sugars in the grains into alcohol.
3. Sour Mashing – a portion of the previously fermented mash is added to the new batch of mash to help control the pH level and prevent bacterial contamination. This process helps to create a more consistent flavor profile.
4. Distillation – the fermented mash is then distilled in a copper still, which helps to remove impurities and concentrate the alcohol.
5. Aging – the distilled whiskey is then aged in oak barrels for a period, which helps to impart flavors and aromas from the wood into the whiskey.

Popular Brands and Cocktails

Sour mash whiskey is a popular type of whiskey that is enjoyed by many people around the world.

Some popular brands of sour mash whiskey include:

1. Jack Daniel’s – one of the most popular brands of sour mash whiskey, Jack Daniel’s is known for its smooth and mellow flavor.
2. Jim Beam – another popular brand of sour mash whiskey, Jim Beam is known for its bold and spicy flavor.
3. Wild Turkey – known for its high alcohol content and bold flavor, Wild Turkey is a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts.

Sour mash whiskey can be enjoyed on its own or used as a mixer in cocktails.

Some popular cocktails that use sour mash whiskey include:

1. Whiskey Sour – a classic cocktail that combines sour mash whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Old Fashioned – a simple cocktail that combines sour mash whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus.
3. Manhattan – a classic cocktail that combines sour mash whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters.