Whiskey High IQ | The Four Grains Explained

Curious about the key grains that shape your favorite whiskeys? In this video, we dive into the world of whiskey by breaking down the four main grains—corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley. Discover how each grain contributes to the flavor profile and character of different whiskey styles.

Whether you’re new to whiskey or a seasoned enthusiast, this series will elevate your tasting knowledge and appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each pour. Take a few minutes to explore the fundamentals of whiskey with Whiskey High IQ.

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In this episode of Whiskey High IQ, Brian Bailie discusses how to track and improve whiskey knowledge through journaling and ranking. He explains GolfCask’s five-point system, where whiskies are rated like golf scores—ranging from a hole-in-one (5) to a double bogey (1). He emphasizes the importance of recording details, including the whiskey name, proof, region, and tasting notes, to reflect on and improve whiskey tasting skills over time. Brian also reviews Glen Kitchy 12, describing its floral and malty notes with a sea air quality, while encouraging listeners to journal their tastings. Finally, he invites fans to the upcoming 'Irons and Oak' whiskey and golf weekend in Charlottesville, VA.

In this quick tasting of Wild Turkey 101, I dive into why it's a must-have bourbon! Priced around $27 for a 750ml, it’s a high rye bourbon with 75% corn, 15-16% rye, and malted barley, aged 6 to 8 years. That dark amber color and slow, wide legs mean we’re at 101 proof! On the nose, it’s all about those classic bourbon notes—caramel, vanilla, and oak. The taste? Sweet and smooth at first, then boom, the spice and pepper kick in, thanks to that rye! The medium finish keeps the sweetness and spice dancing around. Overall, it's a versatile bourbon—perfect neat or in cocktails. Score? Solid 3 out of 5. Wild Turkey 101 belongs on your shelf! #whiskeytasting #bourbon #WildTurkey101 #whiskeylovers #golfcask

In this review of Maker’s Mark, Brian Bailie emphasizes its sweet, approachable nature as a weeded bourbon, making it a great entry-level whiskey. The dark copper color and thin, fast-moving legs hint at its age, around six years, and its 90 proof. On the nose, it offers honey-like sweetness, vanilla, and a touch of oak, with more baking sweetness than the burnt notes typical of traditional bourbons. The taste mirrors the nose, with smooth layers of sweetness and a subtle oak presence. The finish is medium, lingering with an oily texture. Overall, Brian gives Maker’s Mark a score of 3 out of 5 for its nose, taste, and finish, calling it a solid, well-rounded American wheated bourbon at an affordable price of around $30.

In this tasting of Evan Williams Black Label, Brian Bailie evaluates its light copper color, youthful character, and mash bill of mostly corn, rye, and malted barley. He notes its thin legs and 86 proof, describing the nose as having some ethanol with sweet caramel, vanilla, and oak. Despite a slightly rough nose, the taste is smoother than expected, with a sugary sweetness, mild oak, and hints of rye spice. The short finish is quick and sweet, making it more suited for cocktails than sipping neat. Brian gives the whiskey an overall score of 2.75 out of 5, calling it a solid value for its price but not extraordinary.

In this episode of the Whiskey High IQ series, Brian Bailie explores three entry-level bourbons: Evan Williams Black Label, Maker’s Mark, and Wild Turkey 101. He discusses the definition and key characteristics of bourbon, including mash bills and proof levels, while highlighting the distinct differences between these whiskeys. Evan Williams offers a budget-friendly, sweet, but simple experience; Maker's Mark delivers a smooth, approachable taste with a high wheat content; and Wild Turkey 101 stands out with a spicy, higher-proof profile, showing that higher proof doesn’t always mean harsher drinking. Brian encourages listeners to engage in the tasting journey and experiment with flavor notes, emphasizing that every bourbon offers a unique experience.

In celebration of my late September birthday, I’m kicking off a journey to taste and rank 104 whiskeys by next September. I’ll be diving into two tastings a week, featuring a mix of samples, gifts, speakeasy collections, and blind tastings. This is going to be a lot of fun, and I’d love for you to join me along the way—let’s explore and enjoy these whiskeys together!