The Jim Beam mash bill is the combination of grains used in the bourbon-making process. It consists of corn, rye, and malted barley. The exact proportions may vary, but the key requirement is that the mash bill must contain at least 51% corn. This gives Jim Beam its signature sweetness and smoothness.
To create the mash, the grains are mixed together in a specific ratio. The corn provides the foundation of the mash bill, imparting a rich and slightly sweet flavor to the bourbon. Rye adds a spiciness and complexity, while malted barley contributes enzymes that aid in the fermentation process.
Once the grains are mixed, they are cooked in a large 10,000-gallon cooker. This cooking process helps break down the starches in the grains, making them more accessible for fermentation. The mash is heated to a specific temperature to activate the enzymes in the malted barley and convert the starches into fermentable sugars.
But that's not all. The Jim Beam distillery also adds a unique ingredient called “setback” to the mash. Setback is a small amount of previously distilled mash, which is added to each new batch. This serves two purposes. Firstly, it helps maintain consistency in flavor and quality from one batch to another. Secondly, the addition of setback introduces live yeast cultures, which kick-start the fermentation process.
The resulting mixture is known as a “sour mash.” Contrary to its name, sour mash is not actually sour in taste. It is called sour because it uses the setback, which is slightly acidic and helps control the pH levels during fermentation. This ensures a favorable environment for the yeast to thrive and produce the desired flavors.
Once the sour mash is prepared, it undergoes fermentation, where yeast converts the sugars into alcohol. This process takes several days and produces a low-alcohol liquid called “distillers beer.” This beer is then distilled multiple times to concentrate the flavors and increase the alcohol content. The final product is then aged in charred oak barrels to develop the unique taste and color that bourbon is known for.
The Jim Beam mash bill consists of at least 51% corn, along with rye and malted barley. The addition of setback and the fermentation process create a sour mash, which is the foundation for Jim Beam bourbon. The specific proportions and techniques used in the mash bill contribute to the distinct flavor profile and character of Jim Beam bourbon.