Laird's Applejack is not solely apple brandy, but rather a blended spirit made from a combination of apple brandy and neutral grain spirits. While it does contain apple brandy, it also includes a significant portion of neutral grain spirits, which are essentially unflavored spirits made from grains such as wheat, corn, or barley.
To understand why Laird's Applejack is classified as a blended spirit rather than just apple brandy, it's important to delve into the history of this unique beverage. The Laird family, who have been producing apple brandy in the United States since 1698, created the blended Applejack category in 1972 in response to consumer demand for lighter, lower proof spirits.
In the past, applejack was a term used to describe a freeze-distilled apple brandy, made by freezing hard cider and removing the ice to concentrate the alcohol. However, due to modern regulations and safety concerns, freeze-distillation is no longer practiced commercially. As a result, Laird's Applejack is now made through a different process, blending apple brandy with neutral grain spirits to achieve the desired flavor profile and proof.
By blending apple brandy with neutral grain spirits, Laird's is able to create a lighter and more approachable spirit that still maintains the essence of apple flavor. This blending process allows for greater control over the final product, ensuring consistency in taste and proof.
It's worth noting that while Laird's Applejack is a blended spirit, there are other apple brandies available on the market that are not blended. These apple brandies are made exclusively from fermented and distilled apples, without the addition of neutral grain spirits. These pure apple brandies often have a more intense apple flavor and can be enjoyed neat or used in cocktails that call for a stronger apple presence.
In terms of taste, Laird's Applejack offers a balance of apple notes from the apple brandy and a smoothness derived from the neutral grain spirits. The apple brandy component contributes fruity and slightly sweet flavors, while the neutral grain spirits provide a clean and crisp finish. This combination creates a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed on its own, in cocktails, or used as a base for various culinary applications.
In my personal experience, I have found Laird's Applejack to be a delightful addition to cocktails that call for a hint of apple flavor. Its lighter profile allows it to blend harmoniously with other ingredients, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering the drink. It can add a subtle apple essence to classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or the Manhattan, or be used as a base for unique apple-inspired creations.
To summarize, while Laird's Applejack contains apple brandy, it is not solely apple brandy but a blended spirit made from a combination of apple brandy and neutral grain spirits. This blending process allows for a lighter and more approachable spirit that still captures the essence of apple flavor. Whether enjoyed neat, in cocktails, or used in culinary applications, Laird's Applejack offers a unique and versatile apple whiskey experience.