Sipping a glass of whisky is a way to get enjoyment on any special day. But, first-time whisky buyers often feel confused while making the right choice. Without a solid understanding of the whisky-related terms, it is challenging to pick the best whisky. Finishing is the most important term related to the whisky-making process.
Learn about whisky finishing or maturation
Whisky finishing refers to cask finishing and secondary maturation. It is a whisky production process where distilleries transfer the spirit from the primary ageing cask into a different cask for extra maturation. So, the secondary cask imparts better characteristics and flavours to the whisky to improve the existing profile.
The whisky finishing process aims to introduce new nuances and flavour elements to the alcoholic drink. The final product will be more complex. The finishing period may last for a few months or years. It causes an interaction between the whisky and the wood. The process also results in liquid residues in the cask. The interaction lets the whisky absorb colours and aromas from the wood. The resulting whisky’s flavour will be different from the original flavour profile.
Which casks are best for whisky finishing?
The flavour and maturation of your finished whisky depends on the chosen cask. Barrels and hogsheads were traditionally chosen for ageing whisky. Pipes are also used for ageing red wine. However, the most common choice for finishing whisky is the sherry cash. The distilleries infuse various spices (nutmeg and cinnamon) and dried fruits. They want to make a contrast to toffee and vanilla undertones.
Whiskies in the casks show different reactions depending on the types of sherries. For example, oloroso sherry makes the flavour profile more complex. You will feel the notes of dark fruits and nuts. Whiskies matured in sherry casks are richer and better than the drinks stored in ex-bourbon casks. You may buy Johnnie Walker whisky matured in sherry casks.
Varieties of wood used for the cask
A whisky cask is made of European or American oak. The American oak allows you to get a smoother and sweeter flavour. You will get vanilla and caramel notes while drinking the whisky. On the contrary, European oak makes the whisky spicier. Some distilleries also use French oaks to age wine and cognac. If you want a hint of pepper and spice, you can look for whiskies matured in French oaks. Using the sugars, the distilleries caramelise the flavour. Some casks have charcoal to make the bold flavours softer. Based on the desired tastes, every distillery chooses various charring and toasting.
Their bourbon barrels undergo the burning process for around 40 seconds to 3 minutes. More charing makes it easier to let the spirit access the oak’s pores.
The whisky maturation process involves using smaller and larger casks. Smaller casks allow the wood to impart more flavour. That is why most distilleries use these casks for finishing their whiskies.
Whisky enthusiasts and distilleries experiment with various casks for the finishing process. They want to innovate whisky-making procedures to produce the best result.
