Everything You Need to Know About Hazmat Whiskey
What is Hazmat Whiskey?
Hazmat whiskey is not a specific category or type of whiskey but rather a colloquial term used to refer to whiskey with an exceptionally high alcohol content, typically 140 proof (70% ABV) or higher. This is significantly stronger than the standard 80 to 100 proof (40-50% ABV) that whiskey is typically bottled at when commercially mass produced.
Hazmat whiskey is known for its intense and concentrated flavors, as well as its strong alcoholic punch. Not for the faint of heart or for those with weak constitutions, it is very strong and can be quite harsh to drink neat. However, some people enjoy the challenge of drinking hazmat whiskey, and others appreciate the intense flavors that can be found in these high-proof spirits.
How is Hazmat Whiskey Made?
Hazmat whiskey is made the same way as any other type of whiskey. In the case of hazmat whiskey, the high alcohol content is achieved by distilling the spirit to a higher proof during the distillation process or by using cask-strength whiskey, which is whiskey that is bottled directly from the barrel without dilution.
Why is High-proof Hazmat Whiskey So Popular
High-proof whiskey has become increasingly popular among whiskey enthusiasts in recent years. This is likely due to a number of factors:
Intense Flavor: The higher alcohol content in hazmat whiskey often intensifies the flavors and aromas present in the spirit. It can provide a more concentrated and robust taste experience, with pronounced notes of spices, oak, caramel, and other flavor profiles.
Unique Tasting Experience: Hazmat whiskey offers a distinct and powerful sensory experience. The high-proof nature of these spirits can create a warming sensation and a longer-lasting finish, which some whiskey drinkers find appealing.
Dilution and Customization: Higher proof, cask strength whiskey allows drinkers to have more control over the dilution and customization of their whiskey experience. Since hazmat whiskey is bottled at a higher proof, drinkers can add water or ice according to their preference and desired taste, allowing for a more personalized drinking experience.
Collectability and Rarity: Hazmat whiskeys are often produced in limited quantities and can be considered rare or collectible. Some whiskey enthusiasts are drawn to the exclusivity and uniqueness of high-proof expressions, making them highly sought after.
Cocktail Versatility: Hazmat whiskey can be used to create strong, bold, and flavorful cocktails. The higher alcohol content ensures that the whiskey’s flavors shine through even when mixed with other ingredients, making it an intriguing option for mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts. Molotov Cocktails, anyone?
Is Hazmat Whiskey Actually Hazardous?
No, hazmat whiskey is not hazardous in the sense of posing a significant danger to health or safety when consumed responsibly. At least no more dangerous than the consumption of any other alcoholic product.
However, it’s important to note that hazmat whiskey, with its higher alcohol content, can be more potent and have a stronger effect compared to lower-proof spirits. It is essential to consume hazmat whiskey responsibly and in moderation, as excessive consumption of any alcoholic beverage can have negative health effects and impair judgment and coordination.
It is also worth noting that there is an increased flammability risk with higher alcohol content. Molovtov cocktails, anyone?
Some Examples of Hazmat Whiskeys
Now getting to what you all have patiently been waiting for after reading all about what hazmat whiskeys are and aren’t, some real examples of hazmat bottles!
Langatun Hell Fire
Bottled at an eye watering 81% ABV, this special release from Switzerland-based Langatun distillery is just a few shades away from being pure ethanol.
Clearly from the name and fiery imagery, they are leaning all in on the burn factor of their super high-proof single malt whiskey. It’s also finished in Fino Sherry Butts, so there is that?
Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Coy Hill Special Release
A hazmat Tennessee Whiskey, the Jack Daniel’s Coy Hill is a special edition single barrel release. Ranging from 68.7% to 74.2% ABV, these special edition bottles are named after Coy Hill, the highest elevation point on the Jack Daniel’s property.
Due to the success of the initial single barrel releases of the Coy Hill, the team at Jack Daniel’s located even more high proof barrels, blending them together to create a small batch version of the high proof Coy Hill in 2022.
The Belgian Owl Intense
Another single malt that pretty clearly spells out, this one from Belgium. The Belgian Owl Intense dials of the flavor and the proof, putting in squarely in hazmat territory with a high alcohol content of 72-74% depending on the release.
Despite the burn, users report a lot of light, fruity and floral notes to go along with it, making it a surprisingly well balanced dram.
Kings County Barrel Strength Bourbon
From Kings County Distillery in New York we have a hazmat bourbon. While not all of Kings County’s bourbon is over 140 proof, they consistently produce some of highest ABV barrel strength bourbon released on a regular basis.
Spicy and oak forward, many of these releases are considered to be very easy drinking despite the high proof.
Obtanium Light Whiskey
We’ll round out our overproof offerings with a light whiskey from Cat’s Eye Distillery. According to the blog Barleycorn Drinks, “the ‘light’ in light whiskey does not refer to the proof or calories but rather that it is distilled to high ABVs to remove the congeners that lead to a lighter taste and less burn on the palate”. This style was popular in the 1970s, as vodka and other clear spirits grew exponentially and whiskey distillers wanted to stay relevant.
But Obtanium Light Whiskey leveraged generally discarded light whiskey barrels, further aging them, and turning them into a unique and delicious product. Because of the high ABV distillation mentioned, this can result in some serious hazmat whiskey.
Conclusion
As you can see, there is a wide range of styles and producers of whiskey that can result in a bottle turning “hazardous”.
High-proof, barrel strength whiskey has been having a moment for a while now. More intense flavors and more flexibility (you can always add water and proof a whiskey down, but you can’t go the other way, at least not at home) have made it an increasingly popular way to enjoy whiskey.
Hazmat whiskey takes that into overdrive, with ABVs rising to dizzying heights. If you are lucky enough to grab a bottle of hazmat whiskey, enjoy with caution!
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