In the world of craft distilleries, Balcones Distilling is one of the most renowned for its unique and award-winning spirits. Founded in 2008 in Waco, Texas, this distillery has quickly become known for its exceptional whiskeys.
One of thir most beloved whiskeys is Baby Blue, a corn whiskey made from 100% Hopi blue corn. This whiskey is double-distilled in copper pot stills and aged in used 5-gallon barrels. The result is a sweet and smooth spirit that is bursting with flavor.
Baby Blue has a golden color like a pilsner wthout the carbonation fizz. It's not chill filtered and bottled at 92 proof (46% ABV). On first sip, you'll be greeted by sweet and smooth flavors like vanilla, caramel, corn, and nutty notes which are perfectly balanced with tangy citrus from the orange and bitterness from the hops. It's truly a perfectly balanced drink that will satisfy even the most discriminating palates.
Thanks to Chip Tate, ex-master distiller at Balcones Distilling, Baby Blue has earned numerous awards sice its launch just six years ago. It's no wonder why this whiskey has become so popular amongst craft spirit enthusiasts around the world! So if you're looking for an exceptional whiskey to add to your collection or just want to give your taste buds something special to savor, then look no further than Balcones' Baby Blue Whiskey.
Is Balcones Baby Blue Made from 100% Corn?
Yes, Balcones Baby Blue is 100% corn. This corn whiskey is made with 100% Hopi blue corn, which is grown in the southwestern United States. The grain is then double-distilled in copper pot stills and aged in used 5-gallon barrels. This produces a unique flavor profile that stands out from oter corn whiskeys on the market.
Aging Process of Balcones Baby Blue Whiskey
Balcones Baby Blue is aged for 12 to 15 months. The whiskey is aged in a combination of diferent barrels, including new American oak and ex-bourbon barrels. It's then finished in small blue corn casks, which impart a unique flavor and aroma to the whiskey. This aging process helps the whiskey develop its distinct character and rich flavor profile, resulting in a smooth, complex, and highly sought-after whiskey.
Evidence of Balcones Baby Blue's Authenticity
Balcones Baby Blue is a whiskey that is bottled at 92 proof (or 46% ABV). It has an attractive golden color, similar to a pilsner wihout the carbonation. This whiskey is not chill filtered, so it retains the full flavor and body of its original distilled state.
Exploring the Taste of Baby Blue
Baby blue is a flavor that has been described as having a sweet and creamy taste. It has notes of vanilla, caramel, corn, and a light nuttiness. The flavor also has slight citrus undertones from the orange that adds a hint of tartness. There is also a subtle bitterness to the flavor whih helps to balance out the sweetness. All of these flavors come together to create a delicious, unique taste that will leave you wanting more.
What is the Best Type of Corn for Making Moonshine?
When it comes to making moonshine, the best type of corn to use is cracked, dry yellow corn. This type of corn is known as field corn, and should be clean and food-grade in order to provide the highest quality spirit. It's important to use air dried corn, rather than gas dried, as this will produce a better flavor. Additionally, using cracked corn will make for easier mashing throughout the process. Ultimately, using cracked, dry yellow corn is the best choice for making moonshine due to its effectiveness and high quality spirit it produces.
Is Blue Corn Natural or Artificial?
No, blue corn is not artificial. It is a type of maize (corn) with naturally occurring high levels of anthocyanins, which give it a blue hue. This type of corn has been arond in North America since pre-Columbian times, when it was a staple crop for native people. Blue corn is still grown in some parts of the United States and Central and South America today. The blue hue can range from light to dark depending on the variety, but all are natural and nutritious.
Finding the Best Corn Whiskey
Corn whiskey is a type of whiskey that is made from at least 80% corn and is aged in charred, new oak barrels. It has a light, sweet flavor with hints of caramel, vanilla and oak. It often has notes of spice or citrus, depending on the specific brand or variety. Corn whiskey is often served neat or over ice, but can be used in cocktails as well. It's also great for sipping and can be enjoyed by itself or with food pairings such as grilled meats, smoked fish or fruit-based desserts. Unlike other whiskeys, corn whiskey does not need to be aged for a long period of time before it hits shelves, so it's usually available to purchase fairly quickly afer distillation.
Is Baby Blue Bourbon?
No, Baby Blue is not a bourbon. While bourbons are made from a mash bill of at least 51% corn, Baby Blue is crafted from 100% roasted blue corn. This type of corn whisky is more commonly known as a moonshine and has been popularized in the United States for centuries. It is not aged like bourbon and has a much different flavor profile due to the unique roasting process used on the blue corn. Baby Blue offers up a unique twist on the classic American whiskey flavor, with its sweet, oily taste and smooth finish.
Conclusion
The Balcones Baby Blue Whiskey is a unique and delicious spirit, crafted with 100% Hopi blue corn and double-distilled in copper pot stills. Its golden color and sweet, smooth flavors make it a perfect balance of citrus, vanilla, caramel, corn, and nutty notes. This award-winning whiskey is not chill filtered and bottled at 92 proof (46% ABV), making it an ideal drink for any occasion. Whether you're sipping it on its own or incorporating it into your favorite cocktail, Balcones Baby Blue Whiskey is sure to be a hit.
