Balcones Baby Blue is a unique and innovative whisky from Balcones Distilling, located in Texas. It holds the distinction of being the first Texas whisky on the market since Prohibition and is known for its distinctive use of blue corn in the mash bill.
Use of Blue Corn
Balcones Baby Blue is crafted from roasted heirloom blue corn. This type of corn, known for its rich and oily nature, imparts a unique character to the whisky. The use of blue corn, rather than the more traditional yellow corn typically used in bourbon, sets Baby Blue apart in terms of taste and complexity.
Production and Maturation
This whisky is produced with a focus on quality and innovation. The roasting of the blue corn enhances its natural sweetness and nuttiness, contributing to the whisky’s flavour profile. The maturation process in oak barrels adds depth and richness to the whisky, with notes of vanilla and oak.
Tasting Notes and Flavour Profile
Balcones Baby Blue is known for its viscous and oily texture, with a nutty flavour profile that includes notes of BBQ corn and nuts. It is described as easy drinking, with a slight kick at the end. The specific tasting notes may include a combination of the inherent sweetness from the blue corn, along with classic whisky flavours imparted by the oak barrels.
Strength and Presentation
Baby Blue is typically bottled at 46.0% ABV, which is considered an ideal strength for balancing the intensity of flavours with the smoothness of the spirit. The presentation of Balcones Baby Blue reflects the distillery’s artisanal approach and Texas heritage.
In summary, Balcones Baby Blue is a unique and innovative whisky that showcases the creative spirit of Balcones Distilling. Its use of roasted blue corn in the mash bill, combined with careful maturation in oak barrels, results in a whisky that is both distinctive in flavour and rich in character, appealing to those who appreciate innovative and complex whiskies.
