Branch water Show Branch water is: Water from a natural stream (a term primarily used in the southern United States) that has been acquired as close to the source as possible so as to ensure the purest draw available. Popularly/commonly the addition of plain water (rather than soda water) to a mixed drink (for example, "Bourbon and branch" refers to Bourbon whiskey with water, see below) When a whiskey's natural palate is desired to be weakened or ‘cut’ (i.e., diluted by addition of another liquid, or watered down) before bottling or in a mixed drink, the water that is used is very important to the final product. The preferred source of water is called ’branch water’. Branch water comes directly from the stream that the distillery is built on; some companies even bottle this water, so that bar customers can further dilute their bourbon with the original bourbon water. [ ^PM | Exclude ^me | Exclude from ^subreddit | FAQ / ^Information | ^Source ] Downvote to remove | v0.28
Show Full Nutrition Label Hide Full Nutrition Label × (Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.) It does not get much easier than this mixed drink. Really, the name says it all: it's bourbon and water. It's also often called "bourbon and branch," referring to either the stream of water that flows into your bar glass or the branch of a river near a distillery. While the question of how to make a bourbon and water is an easy one, there are some other questions to consider: When should you add water to your whiskey? Should the drinks be served neat? On the rocks? Or perhaps with a splash of water in the classic bourbon and branch tradition? These are all good questions, and there are some tips you can follow, but it's ultimately about your preference. Keep in mind that the type of water you select is important. Mineral water, spring water, filtered water, and distilled water are all good choices. It doesn't matter which you choose as long as it's the cleanest water you have at your disposal. It may seem trivial, but a good water selection can significantly improve your whiskey experience. "The bourbon you pour will define your experience. I chose a higher proof bourbon to negate dilution and to not lose flavor. If it is your first time, start with a trusted reliable brand and you will have a point of reference. Once you get a taste for what you like, continue to explore." —Sean Johnson
TipsDepending on the whiskey you are using, you may want to make different choices about whether to add water or ice. Over 100 Proof: Cask-strength or barrel-proof whiskeys (usually those over 50 percent ABV, or 100 proof) can usually benefit from the addition of a splash of cool water or an ice cube or two. Flavors and aromas that might be missed otherwise will begin to emerge, and the burn of the alcohol becomes less noticeable. If adding an ice cube, allow a few minutes for the whiskey and ice to warm up before drinking. As liquids become colder, less flavor is apparent. 90 to 100 proof: Whiskeys from 45 percent to 50 percent ABV (90 to 100 proof) may be enhanced with water. You may also find that water makes it feel thin and watery; it's going to depend on your palate and the whiskey in front of you. Some whiskey drinkers find that a splash of water helps reduce the sting of alcohol while allowing them to detect subtle nuances in the spirit. 80 Proof Whiskey: Whiskeys at 40 percent ABV (80 proof) are probably best enjoyed neat. They have already been cut down to this strength at the distillery and may not need additional water or ice. But please let your own palate be the ultimate judge. Do not hesitate to order a whiskey on the rocks in a restaurant or bar if that is your preferred way to enjoy it. Recipe Variations
How Strong Is a Bourbon and Water?Unlike mixed drinks, the alcohol content of bourbon and water is not going to be much different from drinking it straight. In general, you can expect a splash of water to weaken your whiskey by just a couple of percentage points. If you're pouring a 100-proof whiskey, for instance, it may only be 48 percent ABV (96 proof). Rate This Recipe I don't like this at all. It's not the worst. Sure, this will do. I'm a fan—would recommend. Amazing! I love it! Thanks for your rating! What happens when whiskey is mixed with water?Water causes new flavors to emerge from the glass, commonly referred to as “opening up” the whiskey. Hartings explains that the water isn't adding any new flavors—it's just water, after all. Nor does it alter the flavor molecules themselves. Instead, water radically rearranges the molecules inside.
What is whiskey and branch water?A Bourbon and Branch is simply bourbon whiskey with plain water. When a whiskey is 'cut' (i.e. watered down) prior to bottling, the water that is used is very important to the final product. The preferred source of water is called "branch water".
Can whiskey be mixed with water?If it is a well-produced whisky, it should have little burn. For a whisky bottled at 46-54%, you may like to add a little water. Try the whisky first, and if any burn feels too harsh, add a few drops of water. For a whisky bottled at 55% or higher, you may well want to add some water.
Why do you add water to whisky?Adding water frees up more of the aroma molecules to evaporate into the taster's nose. Since appreciation of flavors happens at least as much in the nose as on the tongue, “watered-down” spirits actually seem more flavorful.
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