One whiskey that is made from sorghum is Queen Jennie. Named after the notorious bootlegger Jenny Justo, this whiskey is unique in its production process and flavor profile. Queen Jennie is distilled from 100% Wisconsin sorghum, a grain that is not commonly used in whiskey production. This sets it apart from traditional whiskey made from grains like corn, barley, or rye.
The sorghum used in Queen Jennie is carefully selected and milled to extract the sugars needed for fermentation. The fermentation process converts these sugars into alcohol, creating the base for the whiskey. After fermentation, the spirit is distilled to further refine and concentrate the flavors.
What sets Queen Jennie apart is its aging process. The whiskey is aged in small charred oak barrels from Minnesota. This aging in oak barrels imparts unique flavors and aromas to the spirit. The charring of the barrels adds depth and complexity to the whiskey, enhancing its overall character.
When it comes to the flavor profile, Queen Jennie is often described as a hybrid between a great whiskey and a beautifully made rum. The use of sorghum gives it a distinct sweetness and a rich, full-bodied mouthfeel. The oak aging adds notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, balancing out the sweetness and adding complexity.
The taste of Queen Jennie can vary depending on the individual's palate and preferences. Some may find it to be smooth and mellow, with hints of tropical fruits and a touch of molasses from the sorghum. Others may pick up on more pronounced oak flavors, with notes of toasted coconut and a hint of smoke.
Personally, I have had the opportunity to try Queen Jennie on a few occasions, and I must say it is a truly unique and enjoyable whiskey. The sweetness from the sorghum adds a pleasant twist to the traditional whiskey flavors, making it a great sipping spirit on its own or a versatile ingredient in cocktails.
Queen Jennie is a whiskey made from 100% Wisconsin sorghum and aged in small charred oak barrels from Minnesota. Its unique production process and flavor profile set it apart from traditional whiskey made from other grains. The sorghum adds sweetness and richness, while the oak aging adds complexity and depth. If you're looking for something different and intriguing in the world of whiskey, Queen Jennie is definitely worth a try.