Early Times is made by the Brown-Forman Corporation, a well-known and respected company in the spirits industry. Brown-Forman has been in operation for over 150 years and is responsible for producing many popular brands of whisky, including Early Times.
The production of Early Times involves a meticulous process that pays homage to the traditional methods of whisky making. From the very beginning, the company wanted to create a whisky that reflected the authenticity and craftsmanship of the early days of American whisky production. This commitment to tradition is evident in every bottle of Early Times.
To start, the grains used in the production of Early Times are carefully selected and milled. The mashing process involves combining the milled grains with water and heating the mixture to convert the starches into fermentable sugars. This step is crucial as it provides the foundation for the flavor and character of the whisky.
Once the mash is prepared, it is then transferred to fermentation tanks where yeast is added. The yeast consumes the sugars in the mash and produces alcohol through the process of fermentation. This step can take several days to complete, and during this time, the yeast converts the sugars into alcohol, creating a liquid known as “distiller's beer.”
After fermentation, the distiller's beer is ready for distillation. Early Times undergoes a traditional copper pot still distillation process. The distiller's beer is heated in copper stills over open fires, a method that harks back to the early days of whisky making. This process helps to impart unique flavors and characteristics to the whisky.
Once the distillation is complete, the whisky is aged in charred oak barrels. The aging process is crucial as it allows the whisky to develop its flavor and complexity over time. Early Times is aged for a minimum of three years, although some expressions may be aged for longer periods to further enhance the flavor profile.
During the aging process, the whisky interacts with the oak barrels, absorbing flavors and aromas from the wood. This interaction also allows for the gradual evaporation of some of the whisky, known as the “angel's share.” The result is a smooth and flavorful whisky that embodies the rich history and tradition of American whisky making.
Early Times offers a range of expressions, including their flagship Early Times Kentucky Whisky. This particular expression showcases the classic Kentucky bourbon style, with its smooth and mellow character. Additionally, Early Times also produces other variations, such as Early Times Bottled-in-Bond, which is aged for a minimum of four years and adheres to strict regulations set by the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897.
Early Times is made by the Brown-Forman Corporation using traditional methods that pay homage to the early days of American whisky making. From the careful selection of grains to the copper pot still distillation and oak barrel aging, every step in the production process is geared towards creating a whisky that embodies authenticity and craftsmanship. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Early Times offers a taste of the past and a glimpse into the rich history of American whisky.