CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QC Life) - Fancy a pour of whiskey? So, do we.
That’s why we invited Kyle Brown, the bar manager at Customshop, to the show to give us an overview of the various types of whiskeys and Bourbon.
According to Brown, whiskey is the overarching term for a grain-based distillation aged in oak and made across the world in different variations, including Ireland, Canada, and Japan.
Bourbon, however, is a sub classification of it, that’s unique to the U.S and must follow a series of regulations, pertaining to its distillation.
Brown provided us with a list of those below:
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1. It must use 51% corn in the mash build.
2. It must be aged in charred new oak barrels.
3. It must be made in the United States.
4. It cannot exceed 160 proof after distillation.
5. It cannot be barreled at more than 125 proof.
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6. It cannot be bottled at less than 80 proof ii.
7. Corn adds a natural sweetness.
He also shared some tips on how and where to find the best whiskey for different occasions.
“When I am buying whiskey, I break them up into 3 categories. Everyday consumption; something that has a reasonable price point and is to my taste; Weekend pours; something slightly more expensive, normally bottled in bond to enjoy a cap off a long weekend; Special occasions; something that is harder to find, carries a higher price and is something to share,” Brown said.
The expert also recommended pairing whiskey with grilled food items since the beverage’s smokey flavor enhances a piece of steak or duck. Many of their guests at Customshop combine bourbon whiskey with their flan, other desserts, or sweetened coffees as well.
“Bourbon whiskey normally produces something that is more approachable and leans into vanilla, caramel, buttery, nutty, sometimes spices like clove,” Brown said.
What’s more, according to Brown, whiskey and bourbon are usually used in an Old Fashioned, Manhattan or other classically styled coffees.
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