Mellow Corn Straight Corn Whiskey

Mellow Corn Straight Corn Whiskey shines brightest when sipped neat or with a splash of water to open up its sweet, grainy flavors, though it also holds its own in simple whiskey-forward cocktails. Its light, crisp profile makes it a refreshing choice for warm summer evenings, pairing wonderfully with barbecue fare or buttery corn on the cob to complement its cornbread-like notes.

Nose: Sweet corn and vanilla dominate, backed by lighter notes of caramel and oak. There's a hint of ethanol sharpness, typical for a younger whiskey. A subtle grassy freshness emerges as the whiskey opens up.

Palate: Corn sweetness hits first, reminiscent of corn bread or creamed corn. Vanilla and light caramel flavors follow. The mouthfeel is surprisingly oily for a 100 proof whiskey. Oak tannins provide a balancing bitterness, while a peppery spice builds.

Finish: Medium length with lingering sweetness. The corn flavor fades to reveal more oak and vanilla. A slight warmth from the alcohol remains, along with a touch of black pepper. The finish is clean, leaving a subtle corn aftertaste.

Mellow Corn is crafted from a mash bill of at least 81% corn, then aged for a minimum of four years in used oak barrels. What's particularly intriguing about this whiskey is that it's one of the few remaining examples of "bottled-in-bond" corn whiskey, adhering to strict government regulations that ensure a certain level of quality and authenticity in its production.

• Mellow Corn is one of the few remaining examples of "bottled-in-bond" corn whiskey, a designation that requires it to be aged for at least four years in new, charred oak barrels—longer than many bourbons on the market.
• Despite its bright yellow label and budget-friendly price, Mellow Corn has become a cult favorite among bartenders and whiskey aficionados, earning it the nickname "bartender's handshake" when shared between industry professionals.
• The mash bill for Mellow Corn is a whopping 90% corn (much higher than bourbon's required 51%), giving it a distinctly sweet, popcorn-like flavor that's made it a secret weapon in tropical cocktails as a rum substitute.