Wild Turkey Distillery produces both Bourbon and Rye Whiskey, and as a result, they use two different mash bills. The mash bill refers to the combination of grains used in the production of whiskey. It determines the flavor profile and characteristics of the final product.
For their Bourbon, Wild Turkey uses a mash bill consisting of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% barley. This particular combination of grains creates a rich and sweet flavor profile, with the corn providing a strong foundation and sweetness, while the rye adds some spice and complexity. The barley serves as a source of enzymes that help convert the starches in the grains into fermentable sugars during the mashing process.
On the other hand, Wild Turkey's Rye Whiskey has a different mash bill. It consists of 37% corn, 51% rye, and 12% barley. This higher proportion of rye in the mash bill gives the Rye Whiskey a distinct flavor profile characterized by its spiciness and boldness. The corn, although present, takes a back seat to the rye in terms of flavor contribution.
It is interesting to note the difference in grain proportions between the Bourbon and Rye Whiskey mash bills. The higher corn content in the Bourbon mash bill contributes to its sweeter and smoother taste, while the higher rye content in the Rye Whiskey mash bill adds a spicier and more robust flavor profile.
The choice of mash bill is a critical decision for distilleries as it sets the foundation for the whiskey's flavor. Each distillery may have its own unique mash bill to create a distinct and recognizable product. Wild Turkey's mash bills have been carefully crafted to ensure that their Bourbon and Rye Whiskey offerings stand out in terms of taste and quality.
The use of different mash bills is not uncommon in the whiskey industry. Distilleries often experiment with various combinations of grains to create different flavor profiles and cater to different consumer preferences. It is this diversity in mash bills that makes the world of whiskey so fascinating and enjoyable for enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have come to appreciate the impact of mash bills on the final product. The choice of grains and their proportions can significantly influence the aroma, taste, and overall character of the whiskey. It is fascinating to see how slight changes in the mash bill can result in such distinct flavor profiles.
To summarize, Wild Turkey Distillery has two different mash bills – one for Bourbon and another for Rye Whiskey. The Bourbon mash bill consists of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% barley, while the Rye Whiskey mash bill is composed of 37% corn, 51% rye, and 12% barley. These carefully crafted combinations of grains result in unique flavor profiles for each whiskey offering.