Crackling fires, the earthy sweetness infused in the air, the gentle clink of glasses—all summonings of that unmistakable charisma that is bourbon. And while Australia’s relationship with this spirit might not match that of its American counterparts, the Down Under has carved its nook in the bourbon world, lovingly infusing Australian spirits with the essence of the South.
The Alchemy of Bourbon Making: From Grains to Glass
For any bourbon enthusiast, comprehending the alchemical processes behind the amber elixir is crucial. It begins with one of the most significant steps—mashing. This is where the harmonious flirtation between corn, malted barley, and rye takes place, typically with a recipe that’s at least 51% corn. This concoction is then mixed with water and cooked, turning the starches into fermentable sugars—a crucial step that impacts the final product’s sweetness.
Distillation then magnifies the soul of bourbon, with some distilleries using column stills to achieve a cleaner, lighter spirit, while others swig from the traditional pot still, capturing more flavours and producing a richer spirit. Once distilled, bourbon must be aged in charred new oak barrels—often single-use—gingerly nestled inside rickhouses, where they mature under the watchful eye of the angels.
Charmed by Char Variations
Here, the barrel is the maestro, the conductor, and the guardian of flavours. The charring process cajoles the wood to render sugars, vanillins, and tannins that are destined to play a vital role in the bourbon orchestra. Once the charred oak begins its sage dance with the bourbon, the spirit is left to mature, sometimes for years, where it is subject to the whims of the seasons and the temperature gradients within the rickhouse.
Different Strokes for Different Folks—The Types of Bourbon
Bourbon is a spirit that can be as diverse as the people who savour it – consuming Bourbon whiskey is an individual experience. There’s your traditional Straight Bourbon, the dependable and true Mellow Corn, the spicy Kentucky Rye, and even the feistier high rye bourbons, all keenly sought after by the discerning bourbon aficionado.
Actor or Rockstar—Choosing Your Spirit
Brands like Wild Turkey and Buffalo Trace beckon the heart of traditional bourbon with their consistent and reliable distribution, while boutique distilleries such as Four Roses and Blanton’s create a cult following with limited runs and distinct flavour profiles that can be likened to unicorns—difficult to find and magical to enjoy.
Sipping the Rich Heritage of Bourbon
Bourbon transcends being just a beverage; it represents a tale of resilience, adaptability, and transformation, all maturing in oak barrels and elegantly served. Despite not reaching the same production scale as in the U.S., the bourbon culture in Australia is similar to a clandestine passion, enriching our cocktails, barbecues, and lifestyle.
Bottoms Up
This is just a sip into the world of bourbon. For those eager to partake further, the cup overflows with the rich bourbon festivals, tastings, and masterclasses that are as riotously fun as they are informative. Cheers to the spirit that warms hearts and brings folks together, and a resounding call to action for all the bourbon lovers out there—keep nosing, sipping, and exploring the vast, rich world of bourbon.