What is Fat Washed Bourbon?
No, you read that right. Fat Washed Bourbon. The process of flavoring bourbon using fat.
While fat washing does involve some science, anyone can do it with the right equipment. No need for a mixology or bartending degree. It’s about extracting fat from one source and infusing its flavors into another, without introducing the fat solids. Though this may sound unusual, it actually is quite delicious and worth the investment.
Since its inception in the early 2000s, a fat washed bourbon has gained popularity in the bourbon community. It enhances the flavors and texture found in your favorite brand. They have a sweet aroma, become more nutty and buttery, while leaving a silkier mouthfeel.
As Justin Lavenue (Co-owner of the popular Austin cocktails bar, The Roosevelt Room) puts it… “The primary benefit of fat-washing a spirit is the silky mouthfeel that results from the dissolved oils and fats that transfer over into the final product, and the other, more obvious benefit is the flavor yielded from those high-fat ingredients, which are always the tastiest.”
If a fat washed bourbon sounds like something you want to try, then let’s get started.
How Long Does a Fat Washed Bourbon Last?
Before we learn how to fat wash bourbon, it’s important to learn how to properly store it and how long it will keep.
Once bottled and stored in your refrigerator, a fat washed bourbon can be stored for three weeks without needing to infuse another bottle. If you’re worried about potentially wasting this fat washed bourbon, don’t be. One sip of this infused spirit, and you’ll want to pour yourself a glass for every occasion and share it with your friends.
An important note to keep in mind. If you wouldn’t store raw meat there, like on the counter or in an open-topped bottle, then don’t store your fat-washed bourbon there.
What Fats Can I Use to Fat Wash Bourbon?
While bacon grease is the traditionally used fat for the fat washing process, there is one important thing to consider when picking which one to use. Flavor. Which flavor of fat you choose will then affect the flavor profile of the bourbon and change the experience of the fat washed spirit.
Some other popular alternatives like coconut fat, duck fat, butter, olive oil, and sesame oil. Brown butter is especially popular within the vegetarian community for fat washing. You can even fat wash a bourbon with cheese, particularly blue cheese and Parmesan, to create a umami-rich cocktail. But that’s an entirely different blog.
If you are going to use oil like coconut oil to wash your bourbon, we recommend storing it in the refrigerator if you’re not using it for a couple of days to avoid it going rancid.
Want to Learn The Fat Washing Process?
As we’ve stated earlier, you don’t need to be an experienced bartender or professional mixologist to fat wash. If you have a kitchen, you should have everything you need for a mouth-watering drink. Just allow yourself a full day to infuse, freeze, and strain the combination.
Ingredients
- 1 Cup of Bourbon
- Thick Cut Bacon
- 1 Mason Jar
- 1 fine strainer (e.g. cheesecloth or coffee filter)
- 1 Old Fashioned Glass
Directions
- Cook thick cut bacon on a stovetop. Store liquid fat in a fresh container.
- Grab your bourbon.
- Pour 1 Cup of bourbon into a mason jar then add 1 ½ oz. of bacon fat.
- Stir and shake!
- Leave on the counter for 24 hours then pop in the freezer for 30 minutes.
- Strain fat out through a cheesecloth.
- Serve to your liking.
Please ensure you use a container that can withstand temperature changes. The longer you allow the bourbon to infuse, the more it will develop a gamey flavor. Begin with a ratio of one part fat to ten parts alcohol, adjusting as needed based on your preferences. Once you’re familiar with the process and the flavors it produces, feel free to experiment with the measurements to suit your taste.
A fat washed bourbon can be enjoyed straight, or it can be used to elevate your favorite cocktails such as an old fashioned.
Want to Elevate Your Old Fashioned?
Odds are, after fat washing your bourbon, you’re going to want a fat washed cocktail. Here’s an easy Old Fashioned recipe you should try.
Ingredients
- 2 oz. of bacon-infused bourbon
- ¼ oz. of maple syrup
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Orange peel garnish
Directions
- Combine ingredients over ice in a double old-fashioned glass.
- Stir to combine ingredients.
- Add garnish.
- Enjoy!
What Bourbons Are Recommended for Fat Washing?
Even if you are fat washing it, you’ll need a good bourbon. Here’s some we recommend.
Buffalo Trace
Made in the most award-winning distillery in the world, this bourbon is pleasantly sweet but finishes long and smooth with serious depth.
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Woodford Reserve
Made in the traditional style of Kentucky ryes, Woodford Reserve delivered bold flavors of pepper and tobacco with a long fruit and sweetly-spiced finish.
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Wild Turkey 101
This high-proof bourbon is the ideal choice for someone who enjoys a powerful and flavorful drink. It provides its drinker intensity and depth with a robust flavor profile featuring caramel, spice, and a hint of vanilla.
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Bulleit Bourbon
This bourbon loved by bourbon lovers and has become a go-to for those who prefer their drinks more assertive and spirited. It packs a bold, spicy kick that makes it stand out while still providing a smooth taste.
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Knob Creek
Aged nine years to draw out the natural sugars in charred white oak barrels, this full-bodied Kentucky bourbon features a woody almost fruity taste and a long rich finish.
Add to cartCan You Fat Wash Other Spirits?
Yes! There are a variety of possible fat washed spirits to experiment with. We’ve found whiskey, rum, brandy, and Anejo tequila work well with fat washing. You can also fat wash Amaro and Campari, but the process may remove their redness and make them transparent. For more herbal spirits like gin and aquavit, try olive oil. We’ve found that they pair better with them.
