Bourbon-based spirits, while closely related to traditional bourbon, offer a unique twist on this classic American tipple. These variations, which may include additional ingredients, flavours, or alterations in the ageing process, provide an intriguing landscape for exploration beyond standard bourbon offerings. They're particularly appealing to those looking to explore the boundaries of traditional whiskey flavours while maintaining a familiar base.One popular category of bourbon-based spirits involves the addition of extra ingredients or flavours. Unlike traditional bourbon, which adheres to strict regulations regarding its composition and production, these spirits allow for more creativity and experimentation.
Flavoured Bourbons: These spirits start with a bourbon base and then introduce additional flavours such as honey, cinnamon, apple, or even more exotic ingredients. They tend to be sweeter and are often enjoyed in cocktails or as a sipping spirit for those who prefer a less intense whiskey experience.
Bourbon Liqueurs: Combining bourbon with sweeteners and various flavouring agents, these liqueurs offer a more approachable taste profile. They maintain the character of bourbon but are smoother and sweeter, making them ideal for a wide range of cocktail applications.
Young or Lightly Aged Bourbon-Based Spirits
Another category includes spirits that are essentially bourbons in their early stages or those that haven't been aged long enough to meet the legal definition of bourbon.
White Whiskey or Moonshine: Often referred to as "moonshine," these spirits are essentially unaged bourbon. Made from a mash similar to bourbon, they skip the ageing process, resulting in a clear spirit with a robust and raw flavour profile that retains the essence of the grain.
Lightly Aged Bourbon: These spirits have been aged but for a shorter duration than required for traditional bourbon. While they lack the depth and complexity of fully aged bourbons, they offer a fresher, grain-forward taste and a softer wood influence.
Experimentation with Ageing Processes
Some bourbon-based spirits experiment with the ageing process, using innovative techniques or alternative ageing environments.
Small Barrel Ageing: Using smaller barrels accelerates the ageing process, as the spirit has more contact with the wood. This results in a different flavour profile, often with a stronger wood influence and a faster-developing complexity than standard bourbons.
Secondary Ageing: This involves transferring the spirit into a second barrel, previously used for ageing another type of spirit or wine. This process adds layers of flavour, infusing the bourbon with notes from the previous contents of the barrel, such as sherry, rum, or even beer.