Mellow Corn Straight Corn Whiskey Bottled in Bond
50% ABV
$15
Website
What the Distillery Says
Mellow Corn is authentic American Corn Whiskey, a unique kind of straight whiskey that is rarely seen. As corn whiskey, it must be at least 81% corn grain in the mashbill and can be aged in new uncharred or used charred barrels.
The forerunner and kissing cousin to Bourbon, American Straight Corn Whiskey has a recipe or mashbill that includes the minimum of 81% corn, the rest being malted barley and rye. As world-renowned whiskey writer Jim Murray wrote, “If you are a true student of whiskey, your education is a long way from being complete until you have mastered this particularly charming form.”
What Gary Says
Nose: Sweet cornbread with vanilla, a hint of honey and oak.
Palate: Corn sweet, vanilla with a bit of a bite.
Finish: Short and dry with a slight peppery edge.
Comments: I’m not a huge corn whiskey fan, but this is the standard bearer in the category. It isn’t something I reach for very often, but if you’re learning about whiskey I think this should be a required core class. As corn is the major component in bourbon, it helps to understand what it brings to the party, versus that of the “flavoring grain” (typically rye, or wheat). Spoiler alert – this won’t be as complex as a 4 year old straight bourbon, but it helps in identifying “corn sweet” from other flavors. And as an inexpensive product, I think it’s a no brainer to give it a try.
Rating: Stands Out
What Richard Says
Nose: A bit hot and alcohol forward before opening up honey drizzled warm cornbread.
Palate: Great viscosity, just nice a oily in the mouth with a delicate vanilla sweetness.
Finish: Hot. Wood that’s been wet and rolled in cracked black pepper.
Comments: Gary pretty much sums it up. Not stellar but required reading for all new bourbon enthusiasts.
Rating: Average