When it comes to making whiskey, the choice of alcohol is crucial in bringing out the flavors and characteristics of the final product. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have experimented with various types of alcohol and found that using a grain-based alcohol as the base yields the best results.
One option that I highly recommend is using an unripened bourbon as the base for your whiskey. Unripened bourbon, also known as white dog or moonshine, is essentially the raw, unaged form of bourbon. It is made from a mash bill containing at least 51% corn, along with other grains such as barley, rye, or wheat. This high corn content gives the alcohol a slightly sweet and corn-forward flavor profile, which can complement the flavors you want to bring out in your whiskey.
Another excellent choice for a base alcohol is a high-quality vodka made from wheat or another grain. Vodka is known for its clean and neutral taste, which allows the flavors of the ingredients you add to shine through. Opting for a vodka made from grains such as wheat ensures that the alcohol has a smooth and refined character, without any overpowering flavors that could detract from the whiskey-making process.
Using a grain-based alcohol as the base for your whiskey allows for more flexibility and control in terms of flavor development. The grains used in the alcohol will contribute their unique characteristics to the final product, enhancing the complexity and depth of your whiskey. For instance, using a vodka made from wheat will add a subtle sweetness and a smooth mouthfeel, while a bourbon base will bring in more richness and depth.
In my personal experience, I have found that using a grain-based alcohol as the base for whiskey allows for a more nuanced and well-rounded flavor profile. The choice of alcohol sets the stage for the subsequent steps in the whiskey-making process, such as aging and maturation. By starting with a high-quality alcohol that already possesses desirable flavors, you are giving yourself a head start in creating a truly exceptional whiskey.
To summarize, the best alcohol to make whiskey is a grain-based one, such as unripened bourbon or a high-quality vodka made from wheat or another grain. These options provide a solid foundation for flavor development and allow the unique characteristics of the grains to shine through. Experiment with different base alcohols to find the one that best complements your desired flavor profile, and enjoy the journey of creating your own delicious whiskey.