Rain Makes Corn And Corn Makes Whiskey
Did you know that rain plays a crucial role in the growth of corn, which is later used to make whiskey? Corn is one of the most important crops grown in the United States, and it is used in a variety of products, including ethanol fuel, breakfast cereals, and of course, whiskey. In this article, we will explore the process of how rain helps in the growth of corn, and how that corn is used in the production of whiskey.
How Rain Helps Grow Corn
When it comes to growing corn, water is essential. Corn requires a lot of water during the growing season, which typically runs from May to September. Rain is the primary source of water for corn, and it plays a critical role in the growth and development of the plant.
During the growth process, corn requires approximately one inch of water per week. If there is not enough rainfall, farmers must irrigate their fields to ensure that the corn has enough water to grow. However, too much water can also be detrimental to the growth process, as it can lead to flooding and other issues.
The amount of rainfall that corn requires varies depending on the location, as well as the specific variety of corn being grown. However, on average, corn needs between 20 and 30 inches of rainfall during the growing season in order to produce a healthy crop.
The Growth Process of Corn
The growth process of corn can be broken down into several stages. The first stage is the emergence stage, which occurs when the corn seedling first breaks through the soil. The second stage is the vegetative stage, during which the corn plant grows leaves and develops a strong root system. The third stage is the reproductive stage, which is when the corn plant produces tassels and ears.
During each stage of growth, corn requires different amounts of water and nutrients. For example, during the emergence stage, the corn plant is still developing its root system and requires a lot of water to establish itself in the soil. During the reproductive stage, the corn plant requires less water but needs more nutrients in order to produce healthy ears of corn.
Fermentation
Once the corn has been harvested, it can be used to produce whiskey. The first step in the process is to grind the corn into a fine powder, which is then mixed with hot water in a large container called a mash tun. Enzymes are added to the mixture, which breaks down the starches in the corn into simple sugars.
The mixture is then cooled, and yeast is added to the container. The yeast feeds on the simple sugars, which causes fermentation to occur. During this process, the yeast produces alcohol as a byproduct.
Distillation
After fermentation is complete, the mixture is heated in a still, which separates the alcohol from the other components of the mixture. The alcohol is then aged in barrels, which gives whiskey its distinct flavor and color.
Overall, the process of making whiskey from corn is a complex and intricate one. Rain plays a critical role in the growth of corn, which is then used to produce one of the most popular spirits in the world.