A bourbon mash bill recipe is a specific combination of grains used to make bourbon whiskey. According to the U.S. federal regulations, bourbon must be made from a mash bill that is at least 51% corn. The remaining grains in the mash bill can be rye, wheat, malted barley, or other grains. The mash bill recipe will determine the flavor profile of the bourbon.
The importance of a bourbon mash bill recipe cannot be overstated. It is the foundation of the whiskey’s flavor and character. A well-crafted mash bill recipe will produce a bourbon that is balanced, flavorful, and complex. Conversely, a poorly crafted mash bill recipe can produce a bourbon that is harsh, unbalanced, and unpalatable.
