What is corn makes whisky?

Corn is a vital ingredient in making whisky, and it is a mandatory component of bourbon whisky, which must consist of at least 51% corn. The corn provides the major source of carbohydrates that will be converted into alcohol during the fermentation process. Corn's high levels of sugar make it an ideal ingredient in producing whisky.

Whisky makers typically use corn in the form of finely ground cornmeal or corn grits, mixed with other grain components such as malted barley, wheat, or rye, to create a mash. This mixture is then heated to activate the enzymes that break down the starch into fermentable sugars. Yeast is added to this mash to ferment the sugars into alcohol.

After fermentation, the resulting liquid is distilled to separate the alcohol from the water and create a concentrated spirit. This spirit can then be aged in barrels to develop the woody and smoky flavors associated with whisky.

Overall, corn plays a significant role in the production of whisky, and its use is critical in determining the flavor and character of the final product.