Emma Jones
The Mysterious Secret of Bourbon Processing: Devil’s Cut
The Art of Bourbon Making
Bourbon is one of the most beloved spirits in the world. It’s an American whiskey that’s made from at least 51% corn. To be classified as bourbon, the whiskey needs to be aged in charred oak barrels, distilled at no more than 80% alcohol by volume, and bottled at a minimum of 40% ABV. Bourbon is a complex spirit that has some uniquely American flavors. It’s sweet, spicy, and delicious.
Bourbon making is an art. It involves selecting the right grains, adding water, fermenting the mash, distilling the whiskey, aging it in barrels, and finally bottling it. Every step in this process is critical and has a significant effect on the final product.
What is Devil’s Cut?
Devil’s Cut is a term that’s used to describe the bourbon that’s left behind in the barrels after they’ve been emptied. The term comes from the idea that the barrels have been “possessed” by the devil, and the whiskey that’s left behind is the “devil’s cut.” It’s also sometimes referred to as the “angel’s share,” which is the whiskey that’s lost to evaporation during the aging process.
When bourbon is aged in barrels, the wood absorbs some of the whiskey. As the barrels are emptied, some of the whiskey gets left behind, trapped in the wood. Devil’s Cut is the process of extracting this trapped whiskey from the barrels.
The Process of Extracting Devil’s Cut
The process of extracting Devil’s Cut is not easy. It involves cutting the barrels open, then chipping and breaking them down to get to the whiskey inside. This trapped whiskey is very concentrated and has a unique flavor that differs from the whiskey that was bottled from the barrel.
The extracted whiskey is then blended with other bourbons to add depth and complexity to the final product. Devil’s Cut is a prized ingredient in the world of bourbon making. It’s highly sought after by distillers who are looking to create unique flavors and aromas in their whiskey.
Final Thoughts
Devil’s Cut is an essential part of the bourbon making process. It’s a highly coveted ingredient that adds depth and complexity to the final product. While the process of extracting Devil’s Cut is difficult, the result is well worth the effort. Bourbons that use Devil’s Cut tend to have a richer, more complex flavor that’s beloved by whiskey aficionados. So, the next time you’re sipping on a rich, delicious glass of bourbon, remember the Devil’s Cut that went into making it.
