Many people don’t know this, but 90% of the flavor found in Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey comes from the barrel it’s stored in. The aging process in new charred oak barrels adds layers of vanilla, caramel, and oak flavors.
As it sits in the barrel, the whiskey expands and soaks into the wood staves. This happens repeatedly, imparting the different natural flavors and making bourbon the complex spirit it is known to be.
What is Finishing in Bourbon?
For most bourbon, this first barrel is where the complexity ends. However, if a master distiller wants to add even more complexity and other flavors, they can put that bourbon into another barrel.
This is called finishing or double finishing.
Finishing is a technique used to enhance and refine the flavor of bourbon by transferring it into different barrels for additional aging after the primary aging process. The barrels used for finishing often previously held other spirits or wines, which can significantly alter the bourbon’s flavor profile.
Bourbon’s primary aging process must occur in new, charred oak barrels (it’s the law). However, once this initial aging is complete, the bourbon can be transferred to barrels that previously housed sherry, port, rum, or even wine.
This practice is not just about adding new flavors; it’s about creating a balance and adding nuance. The choice of barrel and the duration of the finishing process are critical factors that can dramatically change the final product.
Types of Barrels Used in Bourbon Finishing
The barrels used in the finishing process come in various forms, each contributing unique characteristics to the bourbon. The choice of barrel can reflect the distiller’s creativity and intent.
Sherry Casks
Sherry casks are among the most popular types used for finishing bourbon. These casks add rich, fruity, and nutty flavors, often giving the bourbon a slightly sweeter and more complex profile.
Oak Barrels
Finishing bourbon in oak barrels infuses the spirit with additional layers of flavor, such as hints of vanilla, caramel, and spice, as the wood imparts its unique characteristics. This aging process also enhances the bourbon’s complexity and smoothness, making it richer and more nuanced.
Yellowstone Bourbon Special Finishes Collection Toasted uses toasted oak staves in its process. On the palate, this adds walnut, toffee, black tea, and white pepper to the profile.
Rum Barrels
Rum barrels can impart tropical fruit notes, spice, and a hint of sweetness, making the bourbon more approachable and adding a unique twist to its flavor profile.
Yellowstone Bourbon Special Finishes Collection Rum Cask provides notes of toasted marshmallow, creme brûlée, toffee, and toasted oak.
Cognac Barrels
Finishing bourbon in cognac barrels provides the spirit with a rich and complex flavor profile. The process infuses the bourbon with notes of dried fruit, spice, and a subtle sweetness from the cognac, enhancing its depth and adding a luxurious, velvety finish.
Brandy Barrels
Finishing bourbon in brandy barrels adds a distinctive and nuanced flavor to the spirit. The process introduces hints of caramel, dried fruit, and a delicate sweetness from the brandy, enriching the bourbon’s complexity. This method results in a smooth and well-rounded finish, appealing to those who appreciate a harmonious blend of flavors.
Wine Barrels
Wine barrels, particularly those that held red wine, can add tannins, fruitiness, and a touch of acidity. These barrels are less common but offer a distinctive character to the finished bourbon.
Port Casks
Port casks contribute deep, dark fruit flavors and a silky texture. They can enhance the richness of the bourbon, adding layers of complexity that appeal to seasoned connoisseurs.
There really is no limit on the types of barrels distillers can use to introduce new flavor notes into their spirits.
The Impact of Finishing on Flavor, Aroma, and Complexity
Finishing can profoundly impact the flavor, aroma, and complexity of bourbon. Each type of barrel brings its own set of characteristics, transforming the spirit in subtle or sometimes dramatic ways.
Flavor
The additional aging in different barrels infuses the bourbon with new flavors. For example, when finished in a sherry cask, it might take on notes of dried fruit and nuts, while one finished in a rum barrel might exhibit hints of molasses and tropical fruits.
Aroma
The aroma (or nose) of the bourbon also evolves during the finishing process. The secondary barrels can introduce complex scents like dark chocolate, spice, and berries, enhancing the overall olfactory experience.
Complexity
Complexity is perhaps the most significant benefit of finishing. The layers of flavors and aromas resulting from the finishing process create a more intricate and rewarding tasting experience. Each sip reveals new dimensions, making the bourbon more enjoyable to savor.
And, over time, this complexity changes as the bourbon “opens up” or oxygen is introduced to the bottle.
Tips to Appreciate and Identify Finishing in Bourbons
Learning to appreciate and identify the finishing in bourbons can enhance your tasting experience. It can also help you find more finished bourbons to enjoy whether you drink it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail.
Here are some tips to help you get started:
Look at the Label
Many distilleries mention the type of finishing on the label. Look for terms like “sherry cask finish” or “port cask finish” to get an idea of what to expect.
Take Your Time
Savor the bourbon slowly. Pay attention to the initial flavors, the mid-palate complexity, and the finish. Notice any new or unusual notes that might indicate the influence of the finishing barrel.
Compare and Contrast
Try tasting a finished bourbon alongside a standard expression from the same distillery. For instance, you might try a Yellowstone Select Bourbon before trying the Yellowstone Toasted Bourbon.
Recognizing the similarities and differences will help you build your palate and refine your bourbon senses.
The Future of Bourbon Finishing and Emerging Trends
The world of bourbon finishing is continually evolving, with new trends and techniques emerging. Here’s a look at what the future might hold:
Innovative Barrels
Distilleries are exploring innovative barrels, such as those that held exotic spirits or wines. These experiments push the boundaries of traditional bourbon flavors and create unique expressions.
Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is becoming a significant focus. Many distilleries are sourcing barrels from eco-friendly cooperages and using sustainable practices in their production processes.
Limited Editions
Limited edition finished bourbons are gaining popularity. These exclusive releases often feature unique barrel combinations and are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Yellowstone Limited Edition is our annual release. Each year, we take multiple bourbons and double-finish them in a unique cask.
In 2023, the release featured a delicately balanced blend of 7-year, 13-year, and 16-year-old bourbons, finished in Tokaji casks. Tokaji is a traditional sweet wine from Northern Hungary and is made exclusively from white wine grapes.
Finishing in these casks created a final product that featured dry spice followed by caramel, dark cherry, citrus, and white pepper.
The 2024 Yellowstone Limited Edition Bourbon blends 7-year-old and 17-year-old bourbons, each aged in Cognac and Brandy casks.
Finishing (and double finishing) in these barrels offers hints of vanilla and dark cherry, a subtle oakiness and chocolate, and provides a nose of fruit and toffee.
Learn more about the 2024 Yellowstone Limited Edition release.
Find Yellowstone Bourbon Near You
Whether you’re a bourbon beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, exploring finished bourbons can be a rewarding experience—the variety of barrels and techniques used in finishing offers endless possibilities for discovering new and exciting flavors.
The best way, of course, is to try them for yourself. Find Yellowstone Bourbon near you!