Old Charter 8 is a bourbon whiskey crafted by the skilled distillers at the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. This distillery has a rich history in the world of whiskey, and it is currently owned by the Sazerac Company, which is known for producing a wide range of spirits.
The process of making Old Charter 8 involves a meticulous and time-honored approach to bourbon production. The distillers at Buffalo Trace carefully select the grains used in the mash bill, which is the mixture of grains that will undergo fermentation. While the exact recipe for Old Charter 8 is a closely guarded secret, it is known that it includes a combination of corn, rye, and malted barley.
After the mash bill is prepared, it is cooked and fermented to convert the starches in the grains into alcohol. This fermentation process can take several days, allowing the yeast to work its magic and produce the desired flavors and aromas. Once fermentation is complete, the resulting liquid, known as the distiller's beer, is ready for distillation.
Distillation is a crucial step in the production of bourbon, as it helps to purify the alcohol and concentrate the desired flavors. Old Charter 8 undergoes a traditional copper pot still distillation method, which is known for its ability to produce a smooth and flavorful spirit. This distillation process involves heating the distiller's beer and collecting the vapor that is produced. The vapor is then cooled and condensed back into a liquid, resulting in a spirit with a higher alcohol content.
Once the bourbon has been distilled, it is aged in charred oak barrels, as is required by law for all bourbons. The aging process is a key factor in the development of the flavors and characteristics of Old Charter 8. The bourbon spends a minimum of 8 years in these barrels, allowing it to interact with the wood and take on the rich and complex flavors that bourbon enthusiasts love.
During the aging process, the bourbon undergoes significant changes. The charred oak barrels impart flavors such as vanilla, caramel, and oak, while also helping to mellow out any harshness in the spirit. The temperature and humidity fluctuations in the barrel warehouses also play a role in the aging process, as they cause the bourbon to expand and contract, allowing it to extract even more flavors from the wood.
After the bourbon has aged to perfection, it is carefully blended and bottled by the skilled craftsmen at Buffalo Trace Distillery. Old Charter 8 is known for its smooth and balanced character, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice. The 8 years of aging contribute to its depth and complexity, making it a sought-after bourbon among whiskey enthusiasts.
Old Charter 8 is made by the experienced distillers at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. The careful selection of grains, the traditional distillation methods, and the aging process in charred oak barrels all contribute to the exceptional quality and taste of this bourbon. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail, Old Charter 8 offers a delightful whiskey experience.