Without exception, all alcohol lovers know what the aroma of Scotch or Irish whiskey is. Barley and barley malt are used for the production of these drinks, sometimes with the addition of wheat, rye and even oats. Ready whiskey is aged in oak barrels collected by hand. But what will happen if an alcoholic drink is kept under weightless conditions, for example, on the International Space Station?
Back in 2011, scientists from the private company Nanoracks together with the alcohol producer Ardbeg Distillery sent a small amount of distillate to the ISS (liquid obtained during distillation, aged in oak barrels to form the final bouquet of taste and color of whiskey). Several tanks were in orbit, each of which was only 6 milliliters of alcoholic beverage. The main goal of the experiment was to find out how the microgravity condition would affect the exposure. In particular, scientists were interested in how terpenes would behave - hydrocarbons, which are responsible for the unique aroma of whiskey.
In September 2014, the distillate samples returned safely to Earth, and the best experts among the whiskey tasters carefully examined what resulted in an unusual space experiment. So, four whole years after the start of the study, Dr. Bill Lumsden, head of the distillation process at Ardbeg Distillery, is ready to announce the results:
“Cosmic whiskey has an intense aroma interspersed with antiseptic smoke, rubber and smoked fish. At the same time, there are barely perceptible notes of red and black currant, as well as woody aroma, which fades into the smell of meat products. The taste of whiskey is very concentrated, with an admixture of smoked fruit, such as prunes, raisins, candied plums and cherries. Mint, anise, cinnamon, smoked meats and a taste of earthy peat are also felt. The finish is long and intense, with hints of wood, antiseptic candies and burnt rubber. ”
Well, a rather unusual combination for a strong alcoholic drink, but surely even a buyer would be found for it. After all, such an exclusive search. The only pity is that the dose of whiskey in the hands of scientists does not allow them to share the resulting drink with others. But the samples obtained from orbit were subjected to gas and liquid chromatography in order to compare them with samples obtained under terrestrial conditions. In general, cosmic whiskey is not much different from the usual, if you omit the unusual flavor.
The article is based on materials .
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