Corn whiskey facts for kids
A bottle of Georgia Moon corn whiskey, often sold in a mason jar
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| Type | American whiskey |
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| Country of origin | United States |
| Alcohol by volume | At least 40% |
| Proof (US) | At least 80° |
| Colour | Clear or brown |
| Ingredients | corn |
| Related products | Bourbon whiskey, Straight whiskey, Tennessee whiskey, Bottled in bond |
Corn whiskey is a type of American alcoholic drink. It is made mainly from corn. This drink is different from the homemade alcohol sometimes called "moonshine." Traditional corn whiskey follows specific rules for how it's made. It also follows government laws about alcohol.
Contents
How Corn Whiskey Is Made
Corn whiskey must be made from a mix of grains called a "mash." At least 80% of this mash must be corn. After mixing, the liquid is distilled. This process separates the alcohol. The final alcohol content cannot be more than 80% alcohol by volume (160 proof).
Aging Corn Whiskey
Unlike some other American whiskeys, corn whiskey does not have to be aged in wooden barrels. If it is aged, it must be put into barrels that are either new and not burned on the inside (uncharred) or barrels that have been used before. The alcohol must go into the barrel at a strength lower than 62.5% alcohol by volume (125 proof).
For example, if a whiskey is made from at least 80% corn but aged in a new, burned (charred) oak barrel, it would be called bourbon.
Aging corn whiskey is usually short, often six months or less. During this time, the whiskey gets some color and flavor from the barrel. It also becomes smoother.
Straight Corn Whiskey
There is a special kind called straight corn whiskey. This type is aged for two years or more. It is stored in used barrels or new, uncharred oak barrels. If a straight corn whiskey is aged for at least four years and meets other rules, it can be called "bottled in bond."
Where to Find Corn Whiskey
Many companies that make American whiskey also produce unaged corn whiskeys. They often make them alongside other types like bourbons. While some larger companies make corn whiskey, many smaller distilleries across the United States also produce it.
See also
In Spanish: Whiskey de maíz para niños
