The Grains We Grow: All About Wheat
Wheat is a staple food product throughout the world. It’s commonly referred to as the most important grain for food production. But how is it used in whiskey? We break down everything you need to know about wheat and whiskey.
What is Wheat?
Wheat is a cereal grain, like barley or rye, grown around the world. Cultivated over 9,000 years ago, it is one of the oldest cereal crops in the world.
There are two main types of wheat: spring wheat and winter wheat. Winter wheat is grown in the northern hemisphere. It is seeded in the fall and can either go dormant or grow slowly during the winter months. Winter wheat is ready to harvest in early summer, whereas spring wheat is seeded in the spring and harvested in late summer.
What is Wheat Used For?
Wheat is typically ground into flour to make a variety of foods including bread, pasta, pastries, and breakfast cereals. The flour made from wheat is also used in baking as a leavening agent.
Wheat is a rich source of many nutrients, such as protein, dietary fiber, manganese, phosphorus, and niacin.
Other than food uses, wheat straw is also used in the manufacture of paper, insulation, and animal bedding.
How is Wheat Used for Whiskey?
Wheat is typically not the prominent grain used in whiskey, however it is sometimes used as a component of the mash for whiskey.
A mash is the recipe of grains that are used to make a particular type of whiskey. In the case of wheat, it can be used to contribute flavors such as sweetness and a smooth texture to the whiskey. Typically, wheat is used in a smaller proportion compared to other grains such as corn and barley, which are commonly used as the primary grains in whiskey.
In the United States, some distillers are using wheat as the primary grain in their mash. These whiskeys are accurately named, Wheat Whiskey.
What is Wheat Whiskey?
Wheat whiskey is a type of whiskey that is made primarily from wheat. The mash bill, or recipe, for wheat whiskey must contain at least 51% wheat, with the remaining ingredients typically made up of other grains such as barley, rye, or corn.
It is usually distilled at a lower proof than other types of whiskey, and it can be aged in oak barrels for a period of time to develop its flavor and character. In the United States, any whiskey labeled as “wheat whiskey” must have been aged for a minimum of two years.
What Does Wheat Whiskey Taste Like?
Wheat whiskey is usually described as smooth and sweet, with flavors of vanilla and caramel. Wheat does not provide a substantial amount of flavor on its own, which is why it is so often combined with other grains. Wheat can provide a slight bready-ness along with honey or touches of mint, but generally wheat is used as a gentling grain to help showcase the flavors from the other grains in the barrel.
Cheers!
