Breckenridge Bourbon is a carefully crafted blend of straight bourbon whiskeys. The distillery takes pride in creating a unique flavor profile that sets their bourbon apart from others. Let's dive into the ingredients and process that go into making this exceptional spirit.
The base of Breckenridge Bourbon is made from a mash bill consisting of 56% corn, 38% rye, and 6% malted barley. This particular combination of grains gives the bourbon its distinct character and flavor. The high percentage of corn provides a sweet and mellow foundation, while the rye adds a spicy and robust element. The malted barley contributes to the overall complexity and helps with the fermentation process.
Once the mash bill is prepared, it undergoes fermentation. Yeast is added to convert the sugars in the grains into alcohol. This fermentation process typically takes several days and is closely monitored to ensure optimal flavor development. The choice of yeast strain can greatly influence the final taste of the bourbon, and it is here that the distillers at Breckenridge Bourbon showcase their expertise and creativity.
After fermentation, the liquid is distilled. Breckenridge Bourbon is distilled in Colorado, where the distillery is located. The distillation process involves heating the fermented mash to separate the alcohol from other compounds. This is done through a series of distillation runs, where the liquid is heated and condensed multiple times to increase its purity and concentration.
Once distilled, the bourbon is aged in charred, new American oak barrels. These barrels play a crucial role in shaping the final flavor of the bourbon. The charred interior of the barrels imparts rich caramel and vanilla notes, while the oak itself adds layers of complexity and depth. The aging process takes place over approximately three years, allowing the bourbon to develop its character and mature.
Throughout the aging process, the bourbon interacts with the wood, absorbing flavors and aromas that contribute to its unique taste. The climate of the aging location also plays a role, as the fluctuations in temperature can cause the bourbon to expand and contract within the barrel, allowing it to extract more flavor from the wood.
At Breckenridge Bourbon, the distillers carefully monitor the aging process, regularly sampling and evaluating the bourbon to ensure it reaches its desired flavor profile. Once the bourbon has reached its peak, the barrels are selected for blending, where different barrels are combined to create the final product. This blending process allows for consistency in flavor and ensures that each bottle of Breckenridge Bourbon is of the highest quality.
Breckenridge Bourbon is made from a high-rye mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley. It is distilled in Colorado and aged in charred, new American oak barrels for about three years. The careful selection of grains, fermentation, distillation, and aging process all contribute to the unique and exceptional flavor of Breckenridge Bourbon.