When it comes to liquor, many of us are familiar with the common ingredients used in its production, such as grapes, barley, and wheat. However, one ingredient that often flies under the radar is corn. Corn is a versatile grain that is used in the production of various types of liquor, and in this article, we will explore the different types of liquor that have corn in them.
What is Corn Liquor?
Corn liquor, also known as corn whiskey or corn moonshine, is a type of liquor that is made from a mash of at least 80% corn. The production of corn liquor is similar to that of other types of whiskey, with the corn being fermented and then distilled to create a clear, high-proof spirit. Corn liquor can be aged in oak barrels to give it a rich, full-bodied flavor, or it can be bottled and sold as a clear, unaged spirit.
History of Corn Liquor
Corn liquor has a long history in the United States, dating back to the colonial era. Corn was a staple crop in many parts of the country, and it was often used to make a type of whiskey known as “corn whiskey.” Corn whiskey was popular in the southern United States, where it was often made in small batches by farmers and moonshiners.
Types of Liquor Made with Corn
While corn liquor is a specific type of liquor that is made from a mash of at least 80% corn, there are many other types of liquor that use corn as a primary ingredient. Some of the most common types of liquor made with corn include:
Bourbon Whiskey
Bourbon whiskey is a type of whiskey that is made from a mash of at least 51% corn. The remaining 49% of the mash can be made up of other grains, such as rye, barley, and wheat. Bourbon whiskey is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor, which is due in part to the high percentage of corn used in its production.
How is Bourbon Whiskey Made?
The production of bourbon whiskey is similar to that of other types of whiskey, with the corn being fermented and then distilled to create a clear, high-proof spirit. The spirit is then aged in oak barrels, which gives it a rich, full-bodied flavor. The aging process for bourbon whiskey is typically longer than that of other types of whiskey, with some bourbons being aged for 10, 15, or even 20 years.
Tennessee Whiskey
Tennessee whiskey is a type of whiskey that is made from a mash of at least 51% corn. The remaining 49% of the mash can be made up of other grains, such as rye, barley, and wheat. Tennessee whiskey is known for its smooth, mellow flavor, which is due in part to the Lincoln County Process, a filtering process that involves passing the whiskey through sugar maple charcoal before it is aged.
How is Tennessee Whiskey Made?
The production of Tennessee whiskey is similar to that of bourbon whiskey, with the corn being fermented and then distilled to create a clear, high-proof spirit. The spirit is then filtered through sugar maple charcoal, which gives it a smooth, mellow flavor. The whiskey is then aged in oak barrels, which gives it a rich, full-bodied flavor.
Other Types of Liquor Made with Corn
In addition to bourbon and Tennessee whiskey, there are many other types of liquor that use corn as a primary ingredient. Some of the most common types of liquor made with corn include:
Corn Vodka
Corn vodka is a type of vodka that is made from a mash of corn. The corn is fermented and then distilled to create a clear, high-proof spirit. Corn vodka is known for its smooth, mellow flavor, which makes it a popular choice for cocktails.
How is Corn Vodka Made?
The production of corn vodka is similar to that of other types of vodka, with the corn being fermented and then distilled to create a clear, high-proof spirit. The spirit is then filtered and bottled, with some corn vodkas being flavored or infused with other ingredients.
Corn Rum
Corn rum is a type of rum that is made from a mash of corn. The corn is fermented and then distilled to create a clear, high-proof spirit. Corn rum is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor, which makes it a popular choice for cocktails.
How is Corn Rum Made?
The production of corn rum is similar to that of other types of rum, with the corn being fermented and then distilled to create a clear, high-proof spirit. The spirit is then aged in oak barrels, which gives it a rich, full-bodied flavor.
Corn-Based Liquors Around the World
While corn-based liquors are most commonly associated with the United States, there are many other countries that produce liquors made with corn. Some of the most common corn-based liquors from around the world include:
Soju (Korea)
Soju is a type of liquor that is made from a mash of grains, including corn. Soju is known for its smooth, mellow flavor, which makes it a popular choice for cocktails.
How is Soju Made?
The production of soju is similar to that of other types of liquor, with the grains being fermented and then distilled to create a clear, high-proof spirit. The spirit is then filtered and bottled, with some sojus being flavored or infused with other ingredients.
Cachaça (Brazil)
Cachaça is a type of liquor that is made from a mash of sugarcane and corn. Cachaça is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor, which makes it a popular choice for cocktails.
How is Cachaça Made?
The production of cachaça is similar to that of other types of rum, with the sugarcane and corn being fermented and then distilled to create a clear, high-proof spirit. The spirit is then aged in oak barrels, which gives it a rich, full-bodied flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, corn is a versatile grain that is used in the production of many different types of liquor. From bourbon and Tennessee whiskey to corn vodka and corn rum, there are many different types of liquor that use corn as a primary ingredient. Whether you’re a fan of smooth, mellow flavors or rich, full-bodied flavors, there’s a corn-based liquor out there for you. So next time you’re at the bar or liquor store, be sure to ask about the different types of corn-based liquors available.
| Liquor Type | Primary Ingredient | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Bourbon Whiskey | Corn (at least 51%) | Rich, full-bodied |
| Tennessee Whiskey | Corn (at least 51%) | Smooth, mellow |
| Corn Vodka | Corn | Smooth, mellow |
| Corn Rum | Corn | Rich, full-bodied |
Note: The flavor profiles listed in the table are general descriptions and may vary depending on the specific brand and type of liquor.
What types of liquor are made with corn?
Liquors made with corn include bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, and some types of vodka. Bourbon, in particular, is a type of whiskey that is made from at least 51% corn mash, with the remaining 49% consisting of other grains such as rye, barley, or wheat. The high corn content gives bourbon its distinctive flavor and smooth character.
The use of corn in liquor production is not limited to whiskey, however. Some vodka brands also use corn as a base ingredient, often in combination with other grains or potatoes. Corn-based vodka is known for its neutral flavor and smooth texture, making it a popular choice for cocktails and mixed drinks.
What is the difference between bourbon and Tennessee whiskey?
Bourbon and Tennessee whiskey are both types of whiskey made from corn, but they have some key differences. The main difference is the production process: bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States, while Tennessee whiskey must be made in the state of Tennessee. Additionally, Tennessee whiskey is filtered through sugar maple charcoal before aging, which gives it a distinct flavor and color.
Another difference between bourbon and Tennessee whiskey is the flavor profile. Bourbon tends to be richer and more full-bodied, with a stronger corn flavor. Tennessee whiskey, on the other hand, is often described as smoother and more mellow, with a slightly sweeter flavor. This is due to the filtering process, which removes some of the harsher compounds from the whiskey.
How is corn used in the production of vodka?
Corn is used as a base ingredient in some types of vodka, often in combination with other grains or potatoes. The corn is first fermented to produce a type of beer, which is then distilled to produce a high-proof spirit. This spirit is then filtered and diluted with water to produce the final product.
The use of corn in vodka production gives the spirit a neutral flavor and smooth texture. Corn-based vodka is often described as “clean” or “crisp,” making it a popular choice for cocktails and mixed drinks. Some vodka brands also use corn as a way to add a subtle sweetness to their product, which can be appealing to some drinkers.
What are some popular cocktails made with corn-based liquors?
There are many popular cocktails made with corn-based liquors, including the Old Fashioned, the Manhattan, and the Whiskey Sour. These cocktails typically feature bourbon or Tennessee whiskey as the main ingredient, and are often mixed with sweet or sour flavors to balance out the richness of the whiskey.
Other popular cocktails made with corn-based liquors include the Corn ‘n’ Oil, which features bourbon and a sweet, creamy liqueur, and the Tennessee Mule, which features Tennessee whiskey and ginger beer. These cocktails showcase the versatility of corn-based liquors and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings.
Is corn-based liquor gluten-free?
Corn-based liquor is generally considered to be gluten-free, as corn does not contain gluten. However, some corn-based liquors may be produced in facilities that also handle gluten-containing grains, which can lead to cross-contamination.
If you have a gluten intolerance or sensitivity, it’s a good idea to check with the manufacturer to confirm that their product is gluten-free. Some brands may also offer gluten-free certification or testing to ensure that their product meets certain standards.
Can I make my own corn-based liquor at home?
Making your own corn-based liquor at home is possible, but it requires some expertise and specialized equipment. You will need a still or distillation apparatus to separate the ethanol from the other compounds in the fermented mixture.
It’s also important to note that making your own liquor at home may be subject to local laws and regulations. In some areas, it may be illegal to distill spirits without a license or permit. If you’re interested in trying your hand at home distillation, be sure to research the laws in your area and take necessary safety precautions.
What are some benefits of using corn in liquor production?
Using corn in liquor production has several benefits. One of the main advantages is that corn is a relatively inexpensive ingredient, which can help to keep production costs down. Corn is also a versatile ingredient that can be used to produce a wide range of flavors and styles.
Another benefit of using corn in liquor production is that it can add a smooth, approachable character to the final product. Corn-based liquors are often described as easy-drinking and accessible, making them a popular choice for drinkers who are new to spirits or prefer a milder flavor.