As whisky lovers know, the popular spirit comes in quite a few variations, such as Scotch whisky, Irish whiskey, Canadian, Japanese, Tennessee and rye whiskey, and bourbon whiskey. Some of these even have sub-categories, for example by region or variety. This is especially true of American whiskey, with wheated bourbon becoming increasingly popular.
Bourbon whiskey, like most of the other variations, has a basic process for distilling which sets it apart. The process must involve a mash which consists of a minimum 51% corn, a set period of ageing for the spirit, and the use of charred oak barrels. Wheated bourbon recipes stick to these parameters, but rather than add barley or rye, wheat is added as a secondary flavouring. The wheat gives the spirit a smoother taste, and is less harsh on the palate. Drinkers believe it allows more aromas and subtle flavours to come through, making it perfect to drink neat or over ice.
Although wheated bourbon varieties offer relatively limited options in the whisky/whiskey market, there are one or two varieties which are becoming well known. Pappy Van Winkle is regarded as the number one wheated bourbon, but can cost thousands of dollars because of its rarity. Whereas, Garrison Brothers Texas Straight Bourbon will set you back around $85 (£70), yet it was only recently that Garrison’s became available outside of Texas.
Here at H Cooper Glass Engravers, we have a range of engraved crystal glasses which would be perfect to sample a drop of American wheated bourbon.
