Full Proof Bourbon: A Guide to Barrel Strength Bourbon Terms and Tasting
Understanding Bourbon Terminology
The world of bourbon has its own unique language and terminology that can seem complex to newcomers. However, learning some key bourbon terms will help you better understand this classic American whiskey and enrich your tasting experience.
What is Bourbon?
First, let's start with the basics. Bourbon is a type of American whiskey made from a mash of at least 51% corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels. This aging process in the barrel gives bourbon its distinct color and flavor.
Bourbon must be produced in the United States, but does not necessarily need to be made in Kentucky despite the state's iconic association with bourbon. Popular bourbon brands hail from Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, Ohio, and more.
Common Bourbon Terms
Here are some key bourbon terms every enthusiast should know:
- Mashbill - The recipe of grains used to make the whiskey. A mashbill must contain at least 51% corn.
- Wheated bourbon - Bourbon made with wheat instead of rye in the mashbill. Known for a softer, sweeter flavor.
- Single barrel - Bourbon from one individually selected barrel, meant to highlight unique flavors.
- Small batch - A limited bourbon release blended from a small number of select barrels.
- Bottled-in-Bond - Bourbon distilled and bottled following a strict set of legal requirements for age and ABV.
- Cask strength - Bourbon bottled straight from the barrel at full proof with no dilution.
- Finish - The lingering taste left in your mouth after swallowing bourbon.
Understanding Proof
Proof measures the alcohol content of bourbon. Proof is double the ABV, or alcohol by volume percentage. So, a 100 proof bourbon contains 50% alcohol.
Higher proof bourbons tend to have bolder, more intense flavors and a stronger alcohol burn. Lower proof bourbons offer more balanced, delicate flavors.
What is Full Proof Bourbon?
So what exactly does "full proof" mean when it comes to bourbon? Full proof refers to bourbon bottled at its cask strength or barrel proof - meaning it's bottled straight from the barrel at the same proof it was aged at.
How Full Proof Bourbon is Made
During the aging process in new charred oak barrels, some water evaporates over time, naturally increasing the ABV of the bourbon. After aging, most bourbon is cut with water to reduce the proof before bottling.
However, full proof bourbons skip this final step. They go straight from the barrel to the bottle with no dilution, offering the bourbon at its full cask strength.
Flavor Profile of Full Proof Bourbon
The flavor profile of full proof bourbon offers some key distinctions from lower proof options:
- More intense and concentrated flavors
- Robust oak and vanilla notes
- Fiery alcohol burn and heat
- Thick, viscous mouthfeel
- Finish packed with spice and warmth
Full proof bourbons showcase the bold, raw flavors straight from the barrel before dilution. They offer an amped up and intense bourbon experience.
Popular Full Proof Bourbon Brands
Many bourbon enthusiasts love exploring full proof offerings. Here are some top full proof bourbon brands to try:
- Elijah Craig Barrel Proof
- Stagg Jr. Barrel Proof
- Booker's Small Batch
- Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Barrel Proof
- Maker's Mark Cask Strength
- Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style
- Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel Proof
- Jim Beam Single Barrel
- Larceny Barrel Proof
- Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve
How to Drink and Enjoy Full Proof Bourbon
The bolder alcohol content of full proof bourbons demands some special considerations when drinking:
Add Water to Tame the Heat
A few drops of water can help open up the flavors and temper the sear of higher proof bourbons. Let the bourbon sit for a few minutes after adding water to allow the flavors to properly integrate.
Sip Slowly
Take small sips and allow the bourbon to linger on your palate. Don't shoot it back. Sipping slowly will prevent the alcohol burn from overwhelming your taste buds.
Try it on Ice
Pouring full proof bourbon over ice is another great way to mellow out the heat while cooling down the bourbon for easy sipping.
Pair with Food
Enjoy full proof bourbon alongside hearty foods like steak, smoked brisket, aged cheeses and dark chocolate to balance the intensity.
Cocktails and Mixers
For a more diluted bourbon experience, use full proof expressions in cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan or Whiskey Sour. The higher proof stands up well to added ice, mixers and sweeteners.
The Allure of Full Proof Bourbon
Full proof bourbons offer an exciting chance to taste whiskey straight from the barrel. The bolder, more intense and undiluted flavors let bourbon enthusiasts explore how time in the charred oak barrels influence the final spirit.
Understanding terms like full proof helps decode the wider world of bourbon. Next time you come across a full proof bourbon, savor the chance to sip liquid history direct from the cask.
FAQs
What is the proof of full proof bourbon?
Full proof bourbon is bottled at the same proof, or alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage, that it was aged at in the barrel. This means it can range anywhere from 100 proof to over 130 proof depending on the distillery and bourbon.
Does full proof mean stronger alcohol taste?
Yes, full proof bourbons will taste stronger and have more alcohol burn than lower proof bourbons. The higher ABV packs more potent flavor and heat.
Why is full proof bourbon not diluted?
Bourbon distillers skip the step of diluting full proof bourbons with water before bottling. This allows enthusiasts to taste the bourbon exactly as it aged in the barrel.
How should you drink full proof bourbon?
Sip full proof bourbon slowly, add drops of water to open up flavors, drink over ice or pair with food to balance the high alcohol content.
Is full proof bourbon better?
It's a matter of personal taste. Full proof bourbons offer a more intense, concentrated barrel-aged flavor. But lower proof bourbons have more balance and smoothness.
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