Boulder Spirits distiller Justin Baier walks you through the process and materials of making an American single-malt whiskey, including a broad approach to achieving the best possible flavors.
In this course, Justin Baier, distiller at Colorado’s Boulder Spirits, guides us through the process and materials of making an American single-malt whiskey. You’ll explore equipment and design, ingredients, fermentation, distillation, barrel-aging, finishing, and more. Baier also shares details on their process at Boulder Spirits— including some similarities and key differences from brewing beer—as well as what they’re continuing to learn on their journey.
During the full-length 36-minute course, included in your Craft Spirits & Distilling subscription, Justin covers:
And more.
Featuring:
Lessons
Get a brief introduction from Justin plus an overview of what you’ll be learning in this course on distilling American single malt whiskey.
Whiskey production starts in the mash tun, then goes directly to the fermentor.
Learn about the quality ingredients and water used throughout the process of making an American single malt whiskey at Boulder Spirits.
Learn how the fermentor is controlled during a speedy 58-hour fermentation of an American single malt whiskey at Boulder Spirits.
With distillation, consistency is key. Justin discusses Boulder Spirits’ still, the two runs, and how to make cuts to reach their target ABV.
Discover how the barrel itself and the time aged affect the flavor of the final product.
For American single malt whiskey, every step of the process affects the flavor and final product.
Boulder Spirits offers a special version of American single malt whiskey. It’s inspired by a Scottish classic.
Justin discusses working with and cleaning their copper one-pot still.
With no official category from the TTB, American single malt whiskey can be open to interpretation.
Justin leaves you with some parting thoughts about how to make an American single malt whiskey with your own spin.