Bluegrass bourbon is a unique and distinctive type of bourbon that is made using a specific blend of grains, including blue corn, wheat, and malted barley. This combination of grains sets it apart from other bourbons and gives it a truly exceptional flavor profile.
The primary ingredient in bluegrass bourbon is blue corn, which makes up 75% of the grain bill. Blue corn is a variety of corn that has a bluish-purple color and a slightly sweeter and nuttier taste compared to traditional yellow or white corn. This gives the bourbon a distinct earthy and nutty flavor that is truly one-of-a-kind.
In addition to the blue corn, bluegrass bourbon also includes 21% wheat and 4% malted barley. The wheat adds a smoothness and softness to the bourbon, while the malted barley provides enzymes that help in the fermentation process and contribute to the final flavor.
One of the key aspects that sets bluegrass bourbon apart is its use of the “bottled-in-bond” designation. This means that the bourbon is produced and aged according to strict government regulations. It must be made by one distiller, in one distilling season, at one distillery, and aged in a federally bonded warehouse for at least four years. This ensures the quality and authenticity of the bourbon.
The blue corn bourbon is typically bottled at 90 proof, which is the standard proof for most bourbons. This gives it a balanced and satisfying taste without being overly strong or harsh.
When it comes to the flavor profile of bluegrass bourbon, the blue corn really shines through. The earthy and nutty notes of the blue corn are complemented by hints of vanilla, thanks to the aging process in charred oak barrels. This combination creates a complex and flavorful bourbon that is truly a delight to the senses.
Now, let me share a personal experience with bluegrass bourbon. I had the opportunity to visit a distillery in Kentucky that specializes in bluegrass bourbon production. The distillery was located in the heart of the bluegrass region, surrounded by beautiful fields of blue corn.
During the tour, I learned about the meticulous process of crafting bluegrass bourbon, from milling the grains to fermenting the mash to aging the spirit in carefully selected barrels. The distillery took great pride in their use of blue corn, which they believed gave their bourbon a unique and distinctive flavor.
After the tour, I had the chance to sample the bluegrass bourbon, and I must say, it was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. The earthy and nutty flavors of the blue corn were immediately apparent, giving the bourbon a rich and complex character. The smoothness and hints of vanilla added an extra layer of depth, making it a truly enjoyable sipping experience.
Bluegrass bourbon is a special type of bourbon that is made using a blend of blue corn, wheat, and malted barley. The use of blue corn gives it a distinct earthy and nutty flavor, while the wheat adds smoothness and the malted barley contributes to the fermentation process. Bottled-in-bond regulations ensure its quality and authenticity. The result is a 90 proof bourbon with a unique and exceptional taste that is truly representative of the bluegrass region.