Jack Daniels and Jack Daniels sour mash are both types of whiskey produced by the Jack Daniels distillery. The main difference between the two lies in the process of making the whiskey and the addition of a sour mash in the latter.
To understand the difference, it is important to first understand the whiskey-making process. Whiskey is made from a fermented mash of grains, typically including barley, corn, rye, or wheat. The grains are ground and mixed with water to create a mash, which is then heated to convert the starches into sugars. Yeast is added to the mash, which then ferments to produce alcohol. The resulting liquid, known as distiller's beer, is then distilled to increase its alcohol content.
In the case of Jack Daniels, the traditional method of whiskey production is followed. The mash is made of a combination of corn, barley, and rye, known as the “mash bill.” The fermentation process starts with a fresh batch of mash every time, without any addition of previously fermented material.
On the other hand, Jack Daniels sour mash is made using a different technique. The term “sour mash” refers to the addition of a portion of previously fermented material, known as “backset,” to the new mash. This backset contains spent grains and some of the liquid from a previous distillation. By adding backset to the new mash, the acidity of the liquid increases, hence the term “sour.” This acidity helps to control the pH level of the mash, which aids in fermentation and reduces the likelihood of bacteria growth that could spoil the whiskey.
The use of a sour mash in Jack Daniels sour mash whiskey brings some distinct characteristics to the final product. The addition of backset creates a more consistent environment for fermentation, as it introduces a certain level of acidity and microbial activity from the previous batch. This can contribute to a more predictable and controlled fermentation process, resulting in a whiskey that is less susceptible to off-flavors or spoilage.
Furthermore, the sour mash process can impart subtle flavor differences to the whiskey. The backset contains some residual flavors from the previous distillation, which can add complexity and depth to the final product. These flavors can include hints of caramel, vanilla, or even fruity notes, depending on the specific characteristics of the backset used.
The main difference between Jack Daniels and Jack Daniels sour mash lies in the addition of a sour mash in the latter. The sour mash process involves adding backset from a previous distillation to the new mash, increasing acidity and aiding in fermentation. This process helps to control the pH level of the mash and reduces the likelihood of bacterial spoilage. It also adds complexity and depth to the flavor profile of the whiskey.