sour mash

noun

1. a blended grain mash used in the distilling of some whiskeys, consisting of new mash and a portion of mash from a preceding run and yielding a high rate of lactic acid.

sour mash

noun

1. a grain mash for use in distilling certain whiskeys, consisting of a mixture of new and old mash
2. any whiskey distilled from such a mash

Word History and Origins

Origin of sour mash¹

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

When done, the sugar of what is now “sour mash” has been converted into carbonic acid and alcohol.

From Project Gutenberg

These days when he's idle he mostly sticks home and tries out new ways to make prime old Kentucky sour mash in eight hours.

From Project Gutenberg

Sour Mash is a constant source of anxiety, care, and pleasure to papa.

From Project Gutenberg

Papa says that if the collera comes here he will take Sour Mash to the mountains.

From Project Gutenberg

Susy recognizes that when she mentions Sour Mash it is not necessary to localize her.

From Project Gutenberg