Prohibition bourbon refers to the style of bourbon that was produced and consumed during the era of Prohibition in the United States, which lasted from 1920 to 1933. As you may know, Prohibition was a nationwide ban on the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages. However, despite the ban, the demand for whiskey and other alcoholic drinks remained high, leading to the rise of illegal distilleries and underground alcohol trade.
During Prohibition, the production of bourbon was forced into secrecy, with distilleries operating covertly in remote areas or even underground. The quality and consistency of bourbon during this time varied greatly, as these clandestine operations often lacked the resources and expertise of legitimate distilleries. However, some reputable distilleries managed to continue producing whiskey through legal loopholes or by obtaining permits for medicinal or industrial purposes.
Brown-Forman, the renowned distillery behind the 1920 Prohibition Style bourbon, was one of the few distilleries that survived Prohibition by obtaining a permit to produce whiskey for medicinal purposes. This allowed them to continue distilling and aging bourbon, albeit under strict regulations and limitations. The bourbon produced during this time had a distinct character and flavor profile, influenced by the constraints and conditions imposed by Prohibition.
To replicate the style of bourbon from the Prohibition era, Brown-Forman's 1920 Prohibition Style bourbon is bottled at 115 proof, which is higher than the standard bottling strength of most bourbons today. This higher proof is meant to mimic the intensity and robustness of the barrel-proof bourbon that would have been consumed during Prohibition. It is important to note that not all bourbon produced during Prohibition was high-proof, as many bootleggers diluted their whiskey to maximize profits. However, the 1920 Prohibition Style bourbon aims to capture the essence of the era by offering a higher proof expression.
The flavor profile of 1920 Prohibition Style bourbon is often described as bold and rich, with notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice. The higher proof contributes to a more intense and warming sensation, adding complexity to the overall taste experience. It is important to approach this bourbon with caution, as the higher alcohol content can be quite potent and may require dilution or the addition of water to fully appreciate its flavors.
In my personal experience, tasting a bourbon like 1920 Prohibition Style can transport you back in time and give you a glimpse into the illicit world of Prohibition. It's fascinating to think about the challenges faced by distilleries and the resourcefulness they displayed to continue producing whiskey under such restrictive circumstances. The craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating a bourbon like this is truly commendable.
Prohibition bourbon refers to the style of bourbon produced and consumed during the Prohibition era in the United States. It was characterized by its clandestine production, varying quality, and unique flavor profile. Brown-Forman's 1920 Prohibition Style bourbon aims to recreate this historical style by bottling it at a higher proof and capturing the essence of the era. It offers a bold and intense tasting experience that pays homage to the resilience and innovation of distilleries during a challenging period in American history.