What is High West whiskey made out of?

Answered by Robert Golston

High West is crafted using a unique blend of grains sourced from different distilleries. One of the key components in High West whiskey is a 95% and 5% barley mash bill, which is sourced from the renowned MGP (Midwest Grain Products) distillery. This high rye content brings a bold and spicy flavor profile to the whiskey.

To add complexity and depth to their whiskey, High West also incorporates an 80% rye and 20% malted rye mash bill from their own distillery. This blend of grains adds a distinct character to the final product, with the malted rye providing a subtle sweetness and the high rye content contributing to the overall spiciness.

In addition to rye, High West whiskeys may also contain other grains like corn and barley. For instance, one of their expressions includes a mash bill of 53% rye, 37% corn, and 10% malted barley, sourced from the Barton Distillery. This combination of grains creates a more balanced and approachable flavor profile, with the corn adding a touch of sweetness and the barley providing depth and complexity.

The use of different mash bills and grains in High West whiskey allows for a diverse range of flavors and styles. Each grain brings its own unique characteristics to the final product, resulting in a complex and well-balanced whiskey.

Personally, I have had the pleasure of tasting several High West whiskeys, and I must say that the blend of rye and other grains creates a truly delightful drinking experience. The spiciness from the rye is complemented by the sweetness from the malted rye or corn, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, High West whiskey showcases the artistry of blending different grains to create a truly exceptional spirit.

It is worth noting that High West is known for their commitment to transparency in their whiskey production. They provide detailed information about the mash bills and distilleries used in their blends, which is not always common in the whiskey industry. This transparency allows whiskey enthusiasts to have a deeper understanding of the ingredients and processes behind High West whiskey.

High West whiskey is made from a combination of different mash bills sourced from various distilleries. The use of rye, malted rye, corn, and barley creates a range of flavors, from spicy and bold to sweet and balanced. The careful blending of these grains results in a whiskey that is both complex and approachable, and showcases the craftsmanship and dedication of the High West distillery.