Make spirit, also known as new-make spirit, is an essential component in the production of various spirits, particularly in the realm of Scotch whisky. As a sommelier and brewer, I have a deep appreciation for the intricacies of spirit production, and I'm excited to delve into the details of what make spirit really is.
At its core, make spirit refers to the high-proof alcoholic liquid that is produced during the initial stages of spirit production. It is the result of the distillation process, where a fermented mixture, known as the wash, is heated and the alcohol is vaporized. This vapor is then condensed and collected as make spirit.
In the context of Scotch whisky production, make spirit is typically transferred to oak barrels, where it will undergo a transformative aging process. Before it can legally be labeled as whisky, it must be aged for a minimum of three years in Scotland. During this time, the make spirit interacts with the wood, absorbing flavors and characteristics that contribute to the final product's complexity and depth.
One of the fascinating aspects of make spirit is its high-proof nature. When it first comes off the still, it typically has an alcohol content of around 70-75% ABV (alcohol by volume). This strength is significantly higher than what is commonly found in the finished whisky, which is usually bottled at a lower ABV, typically around 40-50%.
The reason for this dilution is twofold. Firstly, the high-proof nature of make spirit would be too intense and overpowering for most palates. By reducing the ABV, the flavors and aromas of the whisky become more pronounced and enjoyable. Secondly, the addition of water helps to unlock certain chemical reactions within the whisky, allowing it to further develop in terms of complexity and smoothness.
Personally, I find the journey from make spirit to whisky to be a captivating one. Each step of the production process contributes to the final character of the spirit, and make spirit serves as the foundation upon which the whisky is built. It is like a blank canvas, waiting to be shaped and influenced by the aging process.
When tasting make spirit, one can often detect raw, grainy flavors, along with a fiery intensity that comes from its high alcohol content. It lacks the nuances and subtleties that develop during the years of aging in oak barrels. However, make spirit can still offer a glimpse into the potential of a whisky, giving hints of the underlying flavors that may emerge over time.
Make spirit is the initial high-proof alcoholic liquid that is produced during the distillation process of spirits, particularly in the case of Scotch whisky. It serves as the starting point for the aging process, during which it will develop into the complex and refined spirit that is ultimately bottled as whisky. The journey from make spirit to whisky is a transformative one, and each stage of the production process contributes to the final character of the spirit.