It is indeed possible to add hops to whiskey. This process is known as hopped whiskey and it involves infusing the whiskey with the flavors and aromas of hops, which are traditionally used in beer brewing. Hopped whiskey is a unique and innovative twist on traditional whiskey, adding complexity and depth to its flavor profile.
One popular method of adding hops to whiskey is by steeping the hops in the spirit, similar to how one would steep tea leaves in hot water. The hops are typically added to the whiskey and left to infuse for a certain period of time, allowing the flavors and aromas to meld with the spirit. The length of time can vary depending on the desired intensity of the hop character.
Another method involves distilling the whiskey with hops, similar to how gin is made. In this process, the hops are added to the still along with the other ingredients used to make whiskey. The heat from the distillation process extracts the hop oils and flavors, which are then carried over into the final product. This method allows for a more integrated and complex hop character in the whiskey.
Hopped whiskey offers an interesting and unique flavor profile that combines the characteristics of both whiskey and hops. The hops can add floral, herbal, and even fruity notes to the whiskey, depending on the variety used. This can result in a whiskey that has a more complex and layered taste, with a hint of bitterness and a distinctive hoppy aroma.
There are several craft distilleries that have experimented with hopped whiskey, each using their own techniques and recipes. Corsair, based in Nashville, Tennessee, is known for their Galaxy Malt Whiskey, which is infused with pounds of Galaxy hops during the distillation process. The Galaxy hops impart a tropical fruit flavor to the whiskey, creating a unique and refreshing drinking experience.
Charbay, a distillery based in California, takes a slightly different approach with their hopped whiskey. They distill their R5 Whiskey from 6,000 gallons of IPA (India Pale Ale), which is brewed with a generous amount of hops. This method allows for a more direct infusion of hop flavors into the whiskey, resulting in a bold and hop-forward spirit.
Adding hops to whiskey is a creative and innovative technique that can result in a truly unique and flavorful spirit. Whether steeped or distilled with hops, hopped whiskey offers a new dimension to the traditional whiskey experience, combining the best of both worlds from the worlds of whiskey and beer.