Tennessee Whiskey Smoother
The question Is Tennessee whiskey smoother than booze? looms over the spirits industry. Although both whiskeys are made from limestone, some whiskeys are smoother than others. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between the two and compare them. We’ll also discuss some of the reasons you should try a Tennessee whiskey before committing to a bourbon.
One reason for the difference is the process used to create the spirit. Tennessee whiskey is still considered bourbon, but it’s filtered through a process called maple charcoal. This does not change the spirit’s flavor, but it does remove some of the sulfur that bourbon is known for. It also adheres to all of the rules that govern bourbon. In fact, several trade groups have included Tennessee whiskey in their list of recognized bourbons.
A second key to determining whether Tennessee whiskey is smoother than bourbon is the source. Tennessee whiskey is often rectified, and barrels from George Dickel are bottled in Tennessee under various brands. The distillation process is not the same in all Tennessee Whiskey brands, and it’s impossible to tell which whiskey is filtered through the Dickel stock without further research. However, Dickel’s Tennessee whiskey is not considered bourbon, and it could technically qualify as one. It’s made from corn mash bills and aged in oak barrels.
Another way to determine whether a tennessee whiskey is smoother than bourbon is to compare the way in which they are made. Tennessee Whiskey is made with at least 51% corn. It is then aged in charred new oak barrels. Then, it’s charcoal filtered to remove bitter flavors. This process allows Tennessee Whiskey to develop a unique taste profile.
Is Tennessee Whiskey Smoother Than Bourbon?
What makes Tennessee whiskey smoother than bourbon is the way it is distilled. Many US Bourbon producers filter their products, but the process is never explicitly stated on the label. Scottish producers claim that the natural process is better for the quality of their whiskey than the filtered version. However, a 2010 big blind trial with 1,000 samples and 100 connoisseurs found little difference in flavor between the two.
Besides the fact that Tennessee produces a particular style of whiskey, it also produces other kinds of liquor. Tennessee whiskey is a favorite for many bourbon drinkers. Its reputation for being smoother has led it to be one of the state’s top exports. The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States tracks the Tennessee and bourbon markets. In 2013, the Tennessee whiskey market reached $2.4 billion and $1 billion respectively.
Although all whiskey is bourbon, Tennessee whisky must follow the Lincoln County Process. This process adds a step of charcoal filtering to the unaged spirits. Benjamin Prichard is the only Tennessee whiskey that does not use this process. But Tennessee whiskey is made in Tennessee, and Kentucky whiskey is made in Kentucky. So, is Tennessee whiskey smoother than bourbon? Just make sure to find out!
While there are many Tennessee whiskeys, Davidson Reserve is perhaps the best known. This bourbon is a blend of corn, rye, and barley. It is barrel-strength and unfiltered, and has notes of chocolate fudge, berry pie, and vanilla. Its flavor is balanced with a hint of pecan and oak. You can also try Uncle Nearest Tennessee Whiskey, which is straight from the barrel after eleven years of aging.