The Corn Selection Process For Making Bourbon Isn't As Refined As You May Think

While traditional yellow dent corn dominates, distilleries are experimenting with heirloom varieties for unique flavors.

Sourcing corn poses challenges due to their rarity and higher production risks
Aleksandr Porvatkin/Shutterstock
Sourcing corn poses challenges due to their rarity and higher production risks

Bourbon distillers are innovating in various aspects of their craft, yet little attention is paid to the key ingredient: corn. While most bourbon is made from yellow dent corn due to its affordability and availability, some distilleries are experimenting with heirloom corn varieties like Bloody Butcher for unique flavors. However, sourcing these heirloom corns poses challenges due to their rarity and higher production risks. Although these alternative corns offer distinct qualities, their cultivation remains niche due to economic challenges and the dominance of modern corn varieties.

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