How do you make corn whiskey?

Making corn whiskey involves several steps, including preparing the mash, fermenting, distilling, and aging the whiskey. Here's a general outline of how to make corn whiskey:

Ingredients and Equipment:

1. Corn (preferably cracked or coarsely ground corn)

2. Water

3. Yeast (distiller's yeast or turbo yeast)

4. A large fermentation vessel (like a food-grade plastic bucket)

5. Airlock and bung for fermentation

6. Distillation equipment (still, condenser, etc.) or access to a distillery

7. Oak barrels or other aging containers

Step 1: Preparing the Mash:

1. In a large fermentation vessel, mix the cracked corn with water at a ratio of about 1:4 (1 part corn to 4 parts water).

2. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

3. Allow the mash to cool to about room temperature.

Step 2: Fermentation:

1. Once the mash has cooled, add the yeast according to the manufacturer's instructions. Stir gently to distribute the yeast throughout the mash.

2. Cover the fermentation vessel with a lid and attach an airlock and bung to allow carbon dioxide to escape while keeping oxygen out.

3. Let the mash ferment in a warm, dark place for about 5 to 7 days or until the fermentation process is complete (no more bubbling).

Step 3: Distillation:

1. Distillation is the process of separating alcohol from water and impurities. If you have access to a still and the necessary equipment, you can distill the fermented mash.

2. Heat the fermented mash slowly in the still to turn it into vapor. The alcohol vapor rises and is then condensed back into a liquid, resulting in a higher alcohol concentration.

3. The first distillate, called "heads," should be discarded as it contains harmful impurities. The middle portion, called the "heart," is the high-quality corn whiskey. The final portion, called "tails," should also be discarded as it contains unwanted compounds.

Step 4: Aging:

1. Once distilled, the corn whiskey should be aged to mellow its flavors and develop complexity.

2. Transfer the whiskey into oak barrels or other suitable aging containers. Aging in oak barrels imparts distinct flavors and aromas.

3. Age the whiskey for a minimum of 2 years, but ideally longer, to achieve optimal flavor development. Aging in smaller barrels tends to accelerate the aging process.

Step 5: Bottling and Enjoyment:

1. After aging, filter the whiskey to remove any sediment.

2. Bottle the corn whiskey in clean, sterilized bottles.

3. Let the bottled whiskey rest for a few weeks to allow the flavors to settle.

Corn whiskey can vary in flavor depending on factors like the type of corn used, the fermentation process, the distillation method, and the aging conditions. Experimenting with different techniques can help you create your own unique corn whiskey.

Remember that distilling alcohol requires proper safety precautions and may be subject to regulations and licensing requirements in your region. Always follow safe practices and consult local laws before attempting to make corn whiskey.