When it comes to Kentucky Deluxe, there is indeed vodka present in the whiskey. However, it's important to understand that Kentucky Deluxe is not your typical blended whiskey. Most blended whiskeys consist of a combination of different whiskies, such as malt and grain whiskies, to create a unique flavor profile. But in the case of Kentucky Deluxe, it is blended with a different kind of spirit altogether – vodka.
Kentucky Deluxe is made up of 20% Kentucky straight whiskey and 80% grain neutral spirits, which is essentially vodka. This means that the majority of the liquid in the bottle is not whiskey, but rather a neutral spirit that has been distilled to a high proof and then blended with the whiskey.
Now, you may be wondering why a whiskey would be blended with vodka. Well, the use of grain neutral spirits (vodka) in Kentucky Deluxe is primarily a cost-saving measure. Whiskey production can be expensive, as it requires aging in barrels for a certain period of time, which adds to the overall cost. By blending the whiskey with vodka, the producers are able to stretch the whiskey and create a larger volume of product at a lower cost.
From a taste perspective, the addition of grain neutral spirits (vodka) in Kentucky Deluxe significantly affects the flavor profile. Vodka is a spirit that is known for its neutral taste, meaning it doesn't have a distinct flavor of its own. By blending the whiskey with vodka, the overall character and complexity of the whiskey is diluted, resulting in a lighter and less robust taste.
Now, I must admit that as a sommelier and brewer, I am not a big fan of whiskies that are blended with vodka. I find that the presence of vodka tends to strip away some of the unique characteristics and depth that I look for in a good whiskey. However, taste is subjective, and there are certainly people who enjoy the lighter and smoother profile that Kentucky Deluxe offers.
While Kentucky Deluxe is technically a blended whiskey, it differs from other blended whiskeys in that it is blended with grain neutral spirits, or vodka, rather than a combination of different whiskies. The addition of vodka not only affects the taste, but also allows for a larger volume of product at a lower cost. Whether you enjoy this particular blend or not ultimately comes down to personal preference.