UP Bluegrass Whiskey Essence 20 ml

UP Bluegrass Whiskey Essence 20 ml

Bluegrass is the essence for anyone who likes their whiskey with a bit more attitude. Where our gentlest whiskey flavours stroke the palate, this one takes a firmer grip: the sweetness of the corn is all there, but it is joined by the spiciness of rye, roasted nuts and an oak note with real punch. The result is an honest, no-nonsense whiskey that is just as much at home on the sofa on an ordinary weeknight as it is in the weekend’s cocktails.

The flavour rests on three legs: the sweetness of corn, the spice of rye and the vanilla and caramel notes of toasted oak. It is a simple formula that lies behind one of the world’s best-loved styles of whiskey – and that is the flavour profile we have captured in this essence.

Colour & Appearance

In the glass the drink turns a deep gold, shot through with copper and dark honey. It looks warm and inviting, and it has a clarity that sparkles beautifully against the ice.

Nose

The nose opens with vanilla sugar and soft caramel, but something spicier soon pushes its way forward: cinnamon, black pepper and a little clove. Behind that lie freshly roasted peanuts, cornmeal and sweet, sun-warmed oak. Add a splash of water and you will also find a hint of dried apple and orange peel.

Palate

The palate starts out sweet, with butterscotch, corn syrup and vanilla. Then it turns – the rye spice steps up with pepper, cinnamon and a touch of heat that gives the drink its backbone. In the middle of it all sits a nutty, almost peanut-butter note that is typical of the style, together with toasted oak, leather and a little dark chocolate. The body is medium-full, and the balance between sweet and spicy means it never becomes sticky.

Finish

The finish is medium-long and dry. Oak and pepper lead the way, trailed by burnt caramel and vanilla. A gentle warmth lingers in the chest – exactly as it should.

How to Use

Mix the essence with vodka or neutral spirit. One 20 ml bottle makes 750 ml of finished spirit drink, which is ready to enjoy straight away. Instructions are on the bottle’s label.

Serving Suggestions

• Neat, or with a couple of ice cubes in a short, heavy-bottomed glass.
• Old Fashioned: a sugar cube, bitters, orange zest and one large ice cube.
• A highball with ginger ale and a wedge of lime.
• With cola – the spicy whiskey stands up to the sweetness remarkably well.
• A splash in peppercorn sauce or chilli, or for flambéing pan-fried apples.

About the Essence

Bluegrass belongs to our Ultra Premium range, where we have put extra work into depth and true-to-life character. It is our answer to everyone who enjoys a powerful, smoke-free corn whiskey with a spicy profile, and it comes in several sizes, from a single bottle right up to bulk.

Bluegrass is a rewarding whiskey to experiment with. Drop a vanilla pod or a couple of strips of orange peel into the finished bottle and leave it for a week, and you will have a signature whiskey all of your own. It is also a splendid match for food from the barbecue – smoky ribs, burgers and corn on the cob with butter.