WSET Diploma North American Whiskies Exam 100% Verified
If called a Bourbon whiskey the MASH BILL must contain a minimum of 51% of what? -
ANSWER 51% corn or maize.
What are some SMALL GRAINS? - ANSWER Rye, wheat, malted barley.
What is the maximum % abv Bourbon can be distilled to? - ANSWER 80% abv.
At what % abv can it maximum be aged at and what is the minimum period? - ANSWER
62.5 % abv and minimum aging for 2 years
Can colour adjustment be made? - ANSWER NO
Describe Bourbon typical flavour. - ANSWER Full bodied, sweet and punchy spirit with
streaks of vanilla, coconuts, citrusy notes, toffees and spice.
How often is malted barley used in the mash bill? - ANSWER Probably always, not
only for enzyme conversion but to impart that *biscuity sweetness* and a dry finish.
What characteristics does corn give a Bourbon? - ANSWER A signature soft
sweetness. Tight and slightly grainy when young, it mellows and becomes richer with
age.
What flavours/characters does rye impart to a Bourbon? ANSWER Provides Bourbon
with attack. Aromatic, lemon-accented and faintly dusty when young, its presence can
be recognised from mid-palate as an intense, greasy, acid bite that bites. Provides spicy
life at the end
If called a Bourbon whiskey the MASH BILL must contain a minimum of 51% of what? -
ANSWER 51% corn or maize.
What are some SMALL GRAINS? - ANSWER Rye, wheat, malted barley.
What is the maximum % abv Bourbon can be distilled to? - ANSWER 80% abv.
At what % abv can it maximum be aged at and what is the minimum period? - ANSWER
62.5 % abv and minimum aging for 2 years
Can colour adjustment be made? - ANSWER NO
Describe Bourbon typical flavour. - ANSWER Full bodied, sweet and punchy spirit with
streaks of vanilla, coconuts, citrusy notes, toffees and spice.
How often is malted barley used in the mash bill? - ANSWER Probably always, not
only for enzyme conversion but to impart that *biscuity sweetness* and a dry finish.
What characteristics does corn give a Bourbon? - ANSWER A signature soft
sweetness. Tight and slightly grainy when young, it mellows and becomes richer with
age.
What flavours/characters does rye impart to a Bourbon? ANSWER Provides Bourbon
with attack. Aromatic, lemon-accented and faintly dusty when young, its presence can
be recognised from mid-palate as an intense, greasy, acid bite that bites. Provides spicy
life at the end
