Malt whiskey, also known as malt bourbon, is a distinctive and popular type of whiskey that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Made just like bourbon, malt whiskey requires at least 51% of malted barley to be used as an ingredient. This process helps to produce the enzymes which create long-chain carbohydrates, eventually turning them into alcohol.
The result is a whiskey with a rich flavor profile that can be nutty, smoky and even chocolaty. Some of the most sought after malt whiskeys are produced by Balcones Distilling, who have perfected the craft over many years. Balcones “1” Texas Single Malt is their flagship product and is made from yellow corn, malted rye, caramel malted barley and honey malted barley. In addition to this single malt whiskey, the distillery also produces corn whisky, Bourbon and rye whisky.
It's worth noting that all of Balcones' products are aged for at least two years in 53 gallon barrels with different levels of charring – number three or number four – giving each one unique flavor notes and characteristics.
For those looking for a unique drinking experience, malt whiskey is definitely worth exploring. The complex flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for sipping neat or on the rocks but can also be used in cocktails like a Manhattan or Old Fashioned to add an extra layer of complexity.
Whether you're a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or just getting started in your exploration of whiskies from around the world, don't overlook malt whiskey! It's sure to becme one of your favorites!
The Benefits of Malt Bourbon
Malt whiskey, or malt bourbon, is a type of whiskey that is made with at last 51% malted barley as an ingredient. This means that the majority of the grain used to make the whiskey must be malted barley. The other grains used are usually corn and rye. It is then distilled and aged in new charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years to achieve its distinct flavor profile. Malt whiskey has many of the same characteristics as bourbon, but with more complexity due to the addition of malted barley. The flavor profile is often described as having sweet, nutty, and spicy notes with hints of caramel and vanilla.
The Taste of Malt Bourbon
Malt bourbon has a complex flavor profile that can vary depending on the type of malt used and how long it is aged. Generally, malt bourbon has an aroma of roasted nuts, dark chocolate, and smokiness. Its taste is full-bodied and oten sweet with notes of caramel, toast, and nuts. It can also have a subtle smokiness from the barley which enhances its complexity. Malt bourbons are typically richer and more intense in flavor than unmalted bourbons.
The Benefits of High Malt Bourbon
High malt bourbon is a type of American whiskey made from a mash bill containing yellow corn, malted rye, caramel malted barley and honey malted barley. After being fermented for seven days, this mash is aged in oak barrels charcoaled to two distinct levels – level three and level four. The aging process is typically done for at least two years in 53-gallon barrels to achieve the desired flavor profile of high malt bourbon. This whiskey has a strong malty taste with notes of caramel and honey, making it unique among other bourbons.
The Origins of the Term Malt
Malt is the term used to describe the process of germinating and then drying cereal grains, usually barley. When grain is allowed to sprout, it releases enzymes that break down the starches in the grain, making them more easily accessible for fermentation. The process of malting also gives the grain a slightly sweet flavor, which is why it's someimes referred to as sweet meal. This sweet flavor and the fact that grains like barley need to undergo this process in order to be used in brewing beers and liquors are two reasons why it's called malt.
Drinking Malt Whiskey Straight: Is It Advisable?
Malt whiskey is best enjoyed hoever you like it, but purists will tell you that it should always be drunk neat, without any ice or mixers. Drinking malt whiskey straight can bring out the full complexity of the flavour, and some people find that adding a few drops of water can make it smoother and easier to drink. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide how you like your whisky best.
The Strength of Malt Liquor
Malt liquor is much stronger than regular beer because it contains higher amounts of fermentable sugars. This is due to the addition of adjuncts such as rice, corn or sugar, whih can provide a higher ABV than beer alone. Additionally, brewers typically use more yeast when brewing malt liquor to quickly convert the added sugars into alcohol, resulting in a strong malt liquor with a higher ABV than regular beer.
Conclusion
Malt whiskey is an incredibly complex and delicious spirit. The malted barley used in the recipe helps to create a unique flavor profile that can range from nutty, smoky, and chocolaty notes. Balcones Distilling takes great care in crafting ther whiskey by using a mash of yellow corn, malted rye, caramel malted barley, and honey malted barley. This mash is fermented for seven days and then aged for at least two years in barrels with varying levels of char. With such great care put into the production process, it's no wonder why malt whiskey is becoming increasingly popular amongst whiskey lovers around the world.
