Ten High sour mash is a type of whiskey that is produced in Kentucky, USA. It is known for its rich tradition and craftsmanship, and it is carefully distilled and matured in white oak barrels to create a smooth and distinctive bourbon.
One of the key features of Ten High sour mash is its sour mash process. This process involves using a portion of the previously fermented mash to start the fermentation of a new batch. This helps to create consistency in flavor and character from one batch to another. It also adds depth and complexity to the whiskey, giving it a unique taste.
The sour mash process is a traditional method used in bourbon production, and it is believed to have been first introduced in the 19th century. It is a technique that requires attention to detail and a commitment to quality, as the use of the sour mash can greatly influence the final product.
What sets Ten High sour mash apart is its dedication to maintaining this tradition and craftsmanship. The distillers take great care in selecting the grains, which are primarily corn, along with rye and malted barley. These grains are carefully milled and combined with water to create the mash.
Once the mash is prepared, it is fermented using a strain of yeast that helps to convert the sugars into alcohol. This fermentation process can take several days, and it is during this time that the sour mash is added to help start the fermentation of the new batch.
After fermentation, the whiskey is distilled in copper stills to remove impurities and concentrate the flavors. The distillation process is a delicate balance of art and science, as the distiller must carefully monitor the temperature and flow of the liquid to ensure a high-quality product.
Once the whiskey has been distilled, it is then aged in white oak barrels. The aging process is crucial to the development of the flavors and aromas in the whiskey. The barrels impart their own characteristics to the whiskey, adding notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak.
The length of aging can vary, but for Ten High sour mash, it is typically aged for a minimum of four years. During this time, the whiskey undergoes a natural maturation process, where it absorbs flavors from the wood and undergoes a chemical transformation.
The result is a smooth and distinctive bourbon with a rich and complex flavor profile. Ten High sour mash is known for its notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and a hint of spice from the rye. It has a medium body and a long, lingering finish, making it a popular choice among whiskey enthusiasts.
Ten High sour mash is a high-quality bourbon that maintains a rich tradition and craftsmanship. Its sour mash process, careful distillation, and maturation in white oak barrels contribute to its smooth and distinctive flavor profile. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Ten High sour mash offers a taste of Kentucky's whiskey heritage.