Beyond Bourbon: Discovering the Diversity of American Whiskey
When you think of American whiskey, it's likely that bourbon is the first thing that comes to mind. While bourbon is undoubtedly delicious, it's important to remember that there's a vast world of American whiskeys out there beyond just this one type. Here, we'll explore some of the lesser-known whiskeys that are worth discovering and how they differ from the famous bourbon.
Rye Whiskey
Rye whiskey is made using a minimum of 51% rye instead of corn. This leads to a spicier flavor compared to bourbon. Rye whiskey is growing in popularity, with many craft distilleries experimenting with rye to make unique small-batch options.
Tennessee Whiskey
Tennessee whiskey is similar to bourbon, but it undergoes an extra step of charcoal filtering known as the "Lincoln County Process." This filtration removes impurities and creates a smoother flavor profile. The most famous Tennessee whiskey is, of course, Jack Daniel's.
Corn Whiskey
Corn whiskey, as the name implies, is made with a minimum of 80% corn in the mash bill. These whiskeys have a sweet and mild flavor that is perfect for sipping on the rocks or mixing in cocktails.
Wheat Whiskey
Wheat whiskey is made with a minimum of 51% wheat instead of corn. This leads to a smoother and more mellow flavor compared to bourbon. Wheat whiskey has a growing fan base thanks to the rise of craft distilleries that experiment with different grains.
Conclusion
While bourbon is often the first American whiskey that comes to mind, there's a lot more to discover beyond this popular option. From spicy rye to sweet corn to smooth wheat, there's an American whiskey out there for every palate. So go out and explore the diverse world of American whiskey—you never know what delicious surprises you'll find!