If you're a bourbon lover, you're probably familiar with the term “non-chill filtered” (NCF) whiskey. But what exactly is NCF whiskey? And why should you care?
Simply put, non-chill filtered whiskey is the result of a distiller skipping the chill-filtering process. The chill-filtering process involves cooling and filtering the whiskey to remove oils and other components inherent in the whiskey whch can affect its scent and flavor. By skipping this step, non-chill filtered whiskies will typically be richer, creamier in texture, and have more complex flavors than their chill-filtered counterparts.
At first glance, this may seem like an insignificant difference – after all, a bourbon is a bourbon. However, there are some real benefits to non-chill filtered whiskey that are worth noting. For example, NCF whiskies tend to retain more of their original flavor profile due to the lack of filtration. This means that they will often have more robust aromas and flavors than similarly aged chill-filtered whiskeys.
Another benefit of NCF whiskeys is that they remain clear when water or ice is added to them – even at high proof levels. Chill-filtered whiskeys, on the other hand, may become cloudy when mixed with water or ice due to sedimentation caused by filtration.
Finally – and perhaps most importantly – NCF whiskeys tend to be higher in proof than their chill-filtered counterparts due to their higher ester content (the oils responsible for flavor). This means that they are often stronger in taste as well as alcohol content!
So if you want a full flavored whiskey with an intense taste and aroma that won't cloud up when mixed or watered down – NCF whiskey may be just what you're looking for! Just remember: when a bottle says “NCF” it means that it has not been subjected to the chill-filtration process!
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The Benefits of Non-Chill Filtered Bourbon
Non-chill filtered bourbon is a type of whiskey that hasn't undergone the flocculation process and has not been chill-filtered. This means that the whiskey retains extra sediments, oils, and esters that would otherwise be removed through chill-filtration. These can give the bourbon a creamier texture and more complex flavor with an “earthy” or “umami” quality. Non-chill filtered whiskeys can also have a higher proof than those that have been chill-filtered.
The Difference Between Chill Filtered and Non-Chill Filtered
Chill filtering is a process used to remove unwanted components from whiskey during the bottling process. This usually involves cooling the whiskey to near freezing temperatures and then running it through a filter. The filter traps compounds such as fatty acids, esters, and other proteins that can form a haze when added to water or ice. Non-chill filtered whiskey does not go through this step and thus can become cloudy in the glass when water or ice is added. Chill filtering can also slightly reduce the flavor and aroma of whiskey, so some distilleries choose to bottle thir whiskey without chill filtering in order to preserve its full flavor profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, non-chill filtered (NCF) bourbon is a type of whiskey that has been cooled and filtered to remove oils, esters, and other components. NCF whiskey has a richer, creamier texture and sometimes “earthy” or “umami” flavors that you don't get with chill-filtered whiskey. Some prefer NCF bourbon because the additional sediments give it more flavor and character. While chill-filtered whiskey can still become cloudy when water or ice is added, NCF whiskey retains its clarity regardless of how it's consumed. If you're loking for unique flavors and textures in your bourbon, look for bottles marked NCF – you won't be disappointed!
