7 Simple Steps to Make Corn Whiskey

Corn whiskey equipment

Are you ready to embark on a delicious and exciting journey into the world of homemade corn whiskey? This traditional American spirit holds a special place in the hearts of many, and with our comprehensive guide, you can now craft your own batch of this golden elixir in the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a seasoned distiller or a curious novice, this step-by-step walkthrough will empower you to create a smooth, flavorful corn whiskey that will impress your taste buds and leave you yearning for another sip.

Before we dive into the intricacies of corn whiskey production, let’s uncover the captivating history behind this beloved spirit. Corn whiskey, also known as moonshine, emerged in the Appalachian Mountains of the United States during the 18th century. Its popularity skyrocketed as settlers sought a way to preserve their surplus corn crops and evade hefty taxes imposed by the government. Over time, corn whiskey became deeply ingrained in American culture, symbolizing rebellion, resilience, and the pursuit of freedom.

Now, let’s shift our focus to the thrilling process of making corn whiskey. The first crucial step involves sourcing high-quality ingredients. For an exceptional whiskey, opt for non-GMO corn, which boasts a higher starch content and contributes to a sweeter, smoother taste. Additionally, you’ll need malted barley, which provides enzymes essential for converting the corn’s starch into fermentable sugars. Remember, the quality of your ingredients will directly influence the final product, so choose wisely.

Selecting the Right Corn

Dent Corn: The Ideal Choice

Corn kernels come in two primary varieties: dent and flint. While both can be used to produce corn whiskey, dent corn is considered the superior choice for its higher starch content and resulting higher yield of alcohol.

Key Characteristics of Dent Corn

Dent corn is distinguished by its indented crowns, which form as the kernels mature and the soft starch at the kernel’s center shrinks. This indentation creates more surface area for enzymes to break down the starch into fermentable sugars, resulting in a higher alcohol yield.

Selecting High-Quality Dent Corn

When selecting dent corn for corn whiskey production, look for:

High moisture content: Corn with around 20% moisture content is ideal for fermentation.
Mature kernels: Fully mature kernels with a dark, glossy appearance indicate a high starch content.
Clean and free of damage: Choose corn that is free of mold, insects, or other defects to avoid contaminating the mash.

Dent Corn Characteristics	Ideal for Corn Whiskey Production
Indented crowns	Provides greater surface area for enzyme breakdown
High starch content	Results in higher alcohol yield
Mature kernels	Indicates high starch content

Preparing the Mash

The mash is the fermented liquid that is the foundation of corn whiskey. It is made from a mixture of cornmeal, water, and yeast. The fermentation process converts the sugars in the cornmeal into alcohol.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Cornmeal	10 pounds
Water	5 gallons
Yeast	1 packet

Instructions

1. Grind the cornmeal into a fine powder.
2. Heat the water to a temperature of 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Add the cornmeal to the water and stir until it is completely dissolved.
4. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
5. Add the yeast to the mixture and stir until it is completely dissolved.
6. Pour the mixture into a fermentation vessel and seal it with an airlock.
7. Allow the mixture to ferment for 1-2 weeks, or until it has stopped bubbling.

Fermenting the Mash

Step 1: Prepare the Fermentation Vessel

Sanitize a clean bucket or carboy by thoroughly rinsing it with hot water and a sanitizing agent. Fit the vessel with an airlock and lid to allow for gas exchange.

Step 2: Add the Sweet Wort to the Vessel

Pour the cooled sweet wort into the fermentation vessel. Leave some headspace at the top for fermentation activity.

Step 3: Pitch the Yeast

Activate the yeast by rehydrating it in warm water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Sprinkle the activated yeast over the sweet wort and stir gently to distribute it evenly.

Step 4: Ferment

Store the fermentation vessel in a dark place with stable temperatures between 60-70°F (16-21°C). Fermentation typically takes 7-14 days, depending on the yeast and temperature.

Step 5: Monitor Fermentation

During fermentation, the airlock will bubble vigorously as carbon dioxide is produced. Gradually, the bubbling will slow down as fermentation progresses. Use a hydrometer to measure the specific gravity of the wash periodically. When the specific gravity stabilizes, fermentation is complete.

Step 6: Fermentation Duration and Ideal Conditions

Fermentation Duration	Ideal Temperature Range
7-10 days	65-70°F (18-21°C)
10-14 days	60-65°F (16-18°C)

Maintaining stable temperatures and proper sanitation throughout the fermentation process is crucial to ensure successful results.

Distilling the Whiskey

Once the mash has fermented, it is time to distill it. Distillation is the process of separating the alcohol from the other components of the mash. This is done by heating the mash until the alcohol evaporates. The evaporated alcohol is then condensed back into a liquid, which is the whiskey.

There are two main types of stills used to distill whiskey: pot stills and column stills. Pot stills are the traditional type of still used to make whiskey. They are usually made of copper and have a bulbous shape. Column stills are more modern and are more efficient than pot stills. They are tall, cylindrical stills that have a series of plates inside. The plates help to separate the alcohol from the other components of the mash.

The distillation process is divided into three stages: the stripping run, the spirit run, and the feints run. The stripping run is the first stage of distillation. In this stage, the mash is heated until all of the alcohol has evaporated. The evaporated alcohol is then condensed back into a liquid, which is called low wines.

The spirit run is the second stage of distillation. In this stage, the low wines are redistilled. This time, the still is heated more slowly and the evaporated alcohol is collected in a separate container. This liquid is called high wines.

The feints run is the third and final stage of distillation. In this stage, the high wines are redistilled a third time. This time, the still is heated very slowly and the evaporated alcohol is collected in a separate container. This liquid is called feints.

The feints are typically redistilled with the next batch of low wines. This helps to improve the quality of the whiskey.

Once the whiskey has been distilled, it is aged in oak barrels. The aging process helps to develop the flavor and aroma of the whiskey. The whiskey is typically aged for at least two years, but it can be aged for much longer.

Still Type	Description
Pot Still	Traditional type of still made of copper with a bulbous shape.
Column Still	More modern and efficient type of still that is tall and cylindrical with a series of plates inside.

Aging the Whiskey

Prepare the Aging Barrel

Choose a clean, charred oak barrel to age your whiskey. Charring the barrel helps release compounds that add flavor and color to the spirit.

Fill the Barrel

Fill the barrel with the distilled whiskey, leaving about 5% of the space vacant to allow for expansion during aging.

Monitor the Temperature and Humidity

Store the barrel in a cool, dark, and humid environment. Ideal temperatures range from 55 to 65°F (13 to 18°C), and humidity should be around 60-70%. A stable temperature and humidity help prevent excessive evaporation and ensure consistent aging.

Monitor the Aging Process

Regularly check the whiskey’s progress by sampling it through the bunghole. You should notice changes in color, flavor, and aroma as it ages.

Determine the Right Aging Period

The optimal aging period for corn whiskey varies depending on the desired flavor profile. A shorter aging period (2-3 years) will result in a lighter, less complex whiskey, while a longer aging period (5-10 years) will produce a more robust and flavorful spirit.

Aging Period

Flavor Profile

2-3 years

Light, less complex

5-10 years

Robust, flavorful

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Cloudy or Hazy Whiskey

Cause: Presence of impurities or over-aging in charred barrels.
Solution: Filter or distill again to remove impurities; reduce aging time to prevent over-charring.

2. Excessive Bitterness

Cause: Excessive mash time or prolonged contact with the grain hulls.
Solution: Reduce mash time and/or remove grain hulls before fermenting.

3. Off-Flavors

Cause: Microbial contamination or fermentation under improper conditions.
Solution: Ensure proper sanitation, maintain appropriate fermentation temperatures, and avoid oxygen exposure.

4. Weak Whiskey

Cause: Incomplete fermentation or insufficient distillation.
Solution: Ensure adequate fermentation time, re-distill to concentrate alcohol content.

5. Cloudy or Hazy White Whiskey

Cause: Precipitation of congeners due to low aging time or improper storage.
Solution: Age whiskey longer or store at a cooler temperature.

6. Stuck Fermentation

Cause: Lack of nutrients, low pH, insufficient aeration, or presence of inhibitory substances.
Solution: Add nutrients (e.g., yeast extract), adjust pH by adding calcium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate, provide aeration using a stir plate or oxygenation wand, and remove any potential inhibitors (e.g., heavy metals, antibiotics).

Additional Tips:

Cause	Solution
Slow fermentation	Increase fermentation temperature or add more yeast
Off-odor	Identify and eliminate the source of contamination
Excessive sediment	Allow whiskey to settle longer before bottling

Equipment and Supplies

1. Mash Tun

A mash tun is a large container used to mix the cornmeal, water, and yeast together. It should be large enough to hold all of the ingredients with room to spare, and it should be made of a material that won’t react with the mash. Stainless steel or food-grade plastic are both good choices.

2. Fermenter

The fermenter is where the mash will be stored while it ferments. It should be airtight and large enough to hold the mash without it overflowing. Glass or food-grade plastic are both good choices for fermenters.

3. Airlock

An airlock is a device that allows carbon dioxide to escape from the fermenter while keeping oxygen out. This is important because oxygen can cause the mash to spoil. Airlocks are available at most homebrew supply stores.

4. Hydrometer

A hydrometer is used to measure the specific gravity of the mash. This will help you determine when the fermentation is complete. Hydrometers are available at most homebrew supply stores.

5. Thermometer

A thermometer is used to measure the temperature of the mash. This is important because the fermentation process is temperature-sensitive. Thermometers are available at most homebrew supply stores.

6. Funnel

A funnel is used to transfer the mash from the mash tun to the fermenter. It should be large enough to accommodate the flow of the mash without spilling. Funnels are available at most homebrew supply stores.

7. Siphon and Tubing:

A siphon and tubing are used to transfer the finished corn whiskey from the fermenter to a storage container or aging barrel. The siphon should be long enough to reach the bottom of the fermenter and the tubing should be long enough to reach the storage container. Both the siphon and tubing should be made of a material that is resistant to alcohol and other chemicals.

Legal Considerations

Creating corn whiskey at home is a serious undertaking with legal implications. To ensure compliance, it’s crucial to be aware of the following legal considerations:

Legality in Different Jurisdictions

The legality of home distilling varies significantly across jurisdictions. In some countries, like the United States, it’s strictly prohibited, while in others, such as Canada, it’s permitted under certain conditions.

Licensing and Permitting

In jurisdictions where home distilling is legal, licenses and permits are typically required. These documents authorize the production of a specific quantity of alcohol and must be obtained from the relevant government agency.

Registration

Once licensed and permitted, distillers may need to register their stills with the authorities. This process helps prevent the illegal production and sale of alcohol.

Taxation

Home-produced corn whiskey is subject to excise taxes in most jurisdictions. These taxes vary depending on the volume and alcohol content of the whiskey.

Sale and Distribution

Selling or distributing home-produced corn whiskey without the necessary licenses and permits is illegal in most jurisdictions. Even in areas where home distilling is permitted, there are strict restrictions on the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violations of home distilling laws can result in severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and seizure of equipment.

Resources for Legal Guidance

To obtain accurate and up-to-date legal information, consider consulting with the following resources:

Government agencies responsible for regulating alcohol production and distribution
Legal professionals specializing in alcohol law
Industry associations representing home distillers

Jurisdiction	Legality
United States	Prohibited
Canada	Permitted under specific conditions

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor

After all the hard work and patience, it’s finally time to reap the rewards of your labor. Here’s how to enjoy your homemade corn whiskey:

1. Timing

Give your whiskey at least a few months, preferably longer, to age. The longer it ages, the smoother and more complex the flavors will become.

2. Filtering

Once aged, filter your whiskey to remove any sediment or impurities. You can use a coffee filter or a cheesecloth.

3. Bottling

Transfer your filtered whiskey to glass bottles or jars. Seal them tightly and store in a cool, dark place.

4. Serving

Serve your whiskey neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water to taste. You can also create cocktails with your whiskey.

5. Tasting Notes

Take the time to savor the flavors of your whiskey. Note the aroma, taste, and finish. How does it compare to other whiskeys you’ve tried?

6. Aging Potential

Your corn whiskey will continue to age and improve in flavor over time. Store it properly for years to come.

7. Share with Friends

Invite your friends and family to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Share your whiskey and create lasting memories.

8. Home Bar Staple

Your homemade corn whiskey will become a cherished addition to your home bar. Make it a centerpiece of your next gathering.

9. Gift Idea

Homemade whiskey makes an excellent gift for whiskey enthusiasts. Bottle it and give it to loved ones for special occasions.

10. Whiskey in Cooking

Explore the culinary uses of corn whiskey. Add it to marinades, sauces, or baked goods to enhance their flavor.

Flavor Profile	Aging Time	Descriptors
Young	< 1 year	Grassy, corn-forward, spicy
Aged	1-5 years	Smoother, oaky, vanilla notes
Matured	> 5 years	Complex, caramel, leather, spice

How To Make Corn Whiskey

Corn whiskey is a type of American whiskey that is made from at least 80% corn. It is typically distilled to a high proof and then aged in oak barrels. Corn whiskey has a distinctive flavor that is often described as being sweet and spicy. It is a popular choice for making cocktails and can also be enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

If you are interested in making your own corn whiskey, there are a few things you will need:

Corn
Water
Yeast
Sugar
Distillation equipment

The first step in making corn whiskey is to grind the corn into a coarse meal. You can do this using a grain mill or a food processor. Once the corn is ground, it is mixed with water and yeast. The yeast will convert the sugars in the corn into alcohol. The fermentation process typically takes several days.

Once the fermentation is complete, the mash is distilled to separate the alcohol from the water. The distillation process can be done using a variety of equipment, but the most common type of still is a pot still. The distilled alcohol is then aged in oak barrels. The aging process mellows the flavor of the whiskey and gives it its characteristic color.

Corn whiskey can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. It is a versatile spirit that can be used in a variety of ways. If you are looking for a unique and flavorful whiskey, corn whiskey is a great option.