Ten High is a brand of whiskey that has evolved over the years. From its inception in the early 1980s until the late 2000s, Ten High was known as a straight Bourbon whiskey. This meant that it was produced using a specific set of regulations and ingredients that are required for a whiskey to be labeled as “straight Bourbon.”
However, starting in 2009, there was a shift in the labeling of Ten High. The brand began to be labeled as “Bourbon – a blend.” This new designation indicates that the product is still considered a Bourbon whiskey, but it is now a blend of 51 percent straight Bourbon and the remaining 49 percent is made up of neutral spirits.
To understand the implications of this change, let's first dive into what it means to be a straight Bourbon whiskey. According to the regulations set forth by the U.S. government, a straight Bourbon must meet certain criteria. It must be made from a grain mixture that is at least 51 percent corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels. It must also be distilled to no more than 160 proof and entered into the barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof. Finally, it must be bottled at a minimum of 80 proof.
Now, with the introduction of the “Bourbon – a blend” label, we see that Ten High is still a Bourbon whiskey, but it is no longer 100 percent straight Bourbon. Instead, it is comprised of 51 percent straight Bourbon and the remaining 49 percent is made up of neutral spirits. This means that a portion of the whiskey is produced using a different set of regulations and may have a different flavor profile compared to a straight Bourbon.
It is important to note that the use of neutral spirits in the production of whiskey is not uncommon. Many brands choose to blend their straight Bourbon with neutral spirits to create a specific flavor profile or to achieve a certain price point. However, this blending process does alter the characteristics of the whiskey and can result in a different drinking experience.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have tasted a variety of whiskeys, including both straight Bourbon and blended Bourbons. In my experience, the addition of neutral spirits can result in a smoother and lighter-bodied whiskey. The neutral spirits can help to mellow out any harsh flavors and create a more approachable drinking experience.
However, it is also worth noting that the addition of neutral spirits can sometimes be seen as a way to stretch the product and cut costs. By blending the whiskey with a cheaper spirit, the overall cost of production can be reduced. This can result in a lower-quality product compared to a straight Bourbon.
Ten High has transitioned from being a straight Bourbon whiskey to a “Bourbon – a blend” product. This means that it is now a blend of 51 percent straight Bourbon and 49 percent neutral spirits. The addition of neutral spirits can alter the flavor profile and overall quality of the whiskey. It is important for consumers to be aware of this change and make an informed decision based on their personal preferences.