FREE Shipping when you spend £99

Over 4,000 Whiskies

Rated 5* on   

Speak to us for expert advice

Sour Mash Whiskey

If you are partial to a traditional single malt or rye whisky, you may be interested in sour mash whiskey. This zero-waste spirit is made from the remaining contents of previous batches. Most of these drams boast a sweet bourbon taste preferred by many connoisseurs.

Sour mash whiskey was credited to James C. Crow in 1838. However, the Kentucky Historical Society found it was actually first crafted in 1818 upon the discovery of a handwritten recipe. View our limited selection of sour mash whiskey below.

12 Items

per page
Set Descending Direction

Sour Mash Bourbon

Sour mash bourbon is the most common flavour upon leftover drams. It boasts a smooth finish with an oaky aftertaste. Depending on the original batch, you may find notes of coffee, caramel, corn, fruit and spice.

To perfectly balance the complicated flavour of sour mash bourbon, we recommend aged cheddar or buffalo wings as an appetiser. Next, roast chicken or smoked salmon for your main course. Finally, dark chocolate or fresh fruit for dessert. If you prefer a light snack with your spirits, why not try caramel popcorn or pretzels?

What is sour mash whiskey?

Sour mash whiskey is made by taking a portion of previously used mash and adding it to a fresh batch. While this gives the mash a slightly sour taste, it doesn’t affect the flavor of the final whiskey. The sour mash process helps ensure consistency between batches and reduces the risk of bacterial contamination during fermentation.

Which grains are used in sour mash whiskey?

In the sour mash process, the mash is typically a mixture of grain, malt and water. Common grains used in sour mash whiskey include corn, rye and barley. These are classic grains often used in whiskey production.

What does sour mash whiskey taste like?

The flavour of sour mash whiskey depends on the type of grain used to produce it. Many sour mash whiskeys are described as having a smooth and sweet flavour profile. The sour mash process helps to regulate the pH level of the mash and ensures that the flavor remains consistent from each batch.