At eight years old, the whiskey sits precariously on the brink of maturity. Its once prominent boldness starts to fade, giving way to the intricate influences of the cask. This stage in the eight-year-old whiskey's life is characterised more by its journey into a deeper, more layered expression than by the raw vibrancy of its youth.
Corn whiskey, a definitive American classic, tells a rich story of history, craftsmanship, and flavour deeply intertwined with the nation's identity. This particular type of whiskey, with roots tracing back to the early settlers, found its essence in the abundant cornfields. These pioneers, looking for ways to preserve their grain harvest, discovered distillation as an efficient method. In the early days, especially in the southern frontier regions, farmers often found themselves with surplus corn. Turning this excess into whiskey not only extended the grain's shelf life but also created a profitable trade item. This practice eventually led to the emergence of "moonshining," a term coined during the period when heavy taxes on distilled spirits led many to produce their corn whiskey illicitly under the cover of night.
At eight years old, the production of corn whiskey remains a straightforward yet nuanced craft. To be classified as corn whiskey in the U.S., the spirit must contain at least 80% corn in its mash bill. This heavy corn presence defines the whiskey's unique flavour profile. After mashing and fermenting the grains, the liquid is distilled. Unlike many other types of whiskey, corn whiskey is often distilled to a higher proof, retaining a robust, grain-forward character. The ageing process of the eight-year-old corn whiskey is also distinctive. While other whiskies may require ageing in new charred oak barrels, corn whiskey can be aged in uncharred or used barrels or sometimes not aged at all. This allows the natural essence of the corn to shine, unmasked by the potent tannins and flavours from charred wood.
Tasting an eight-year-old corn whiskey offers a delightful exploration of the senses. Its flavour profile is characterised by a pronounced sweetness, bringing to mind images of fresh cornbread or buttery popcorn. Hints of vanilla and caramel may also be present, with the whiskey generally offering a smooth, rounded, and full-bodied experience. Today, the world of spirits is experiencing a resurgence in interest and appreciation for traditional practices, and corn whiskey is enjoying a renewed reverence. Modern distillers, while preserving time-honoured methods, are also innovating to create sophisticated expressions of this age-old spirit. Regardless of how it is consumed, be it neat or in a cocktail, an eight-year-old corn whiskey serves as a delectable taste of American heritage.