Understanding the Temperature and Humidity Effects on Whiskey
When you first hear about the Jefferson’s Ocean whiskey, your mind naturally drifts to images of tall ships navigating turbulent seas. This small-batch spirit is unlike any other, embarking on extensive voyages across the Pacific and even circling the Caribbean. Jefferson’s Ocean whiskey is far from ordinary.
The Journey of Jefferson’s Ocean Whiskey
There’s a certain magic, almost a romantic air, to the story of how this Whiskey is created. While other spirits are content to age in stationary barrels, Jefferson’s Ocean whiskey is shaped by the relentless forces of nature. Storms, tropical heat, and the constant movement of the sea all contribute to the unique character of each Voyage expression. Every voyage can only carry a limited amount of whiskey, making each batch incredibly special and rare.
Factors Influencing the Aging Process
The idea behind Jefferson’s Ocean whiskey emerged from a conversation between co-founder Trey Zoeller and a friend while fishing in Costa Rica. they wondered how the churning of oceanic journeys might affect the aging of whiskey. This seemingly crazy idea has now become a successful and growing segment within Jefferson’s portfolio.
The aging process is influenced by multiple factors:
- Temperature: The temperature at which the barrels are stored plays a crucial role. The differences in aging between Scotch in cooler climates and rum in the Caribbean are well-documented. Similarly, the ships that carry Jefferson’s whiskey experience significant temperature swings during their voyages.
- Humidity: Along with temperature, humidity affects how the oak barrels interact with the whiskey. Higher temperatures and humidity levels cause the wood grain to open up, allowing for more interaction between the barrel and the spirit.
The Influence of the Angel’s Share
Another critical factor is what the whiskey industry calls the “angel’s share,” which refers to evaporation. The amount of spirit that evaporates varies from one voyage to another, contributing to the unique flavor profile of each batch. This is particularly evident with Cask Strength Jefferson’s Ocean bourbon, where the alcohol percentage can fluctuate between batches.
| Voyage | Temperature Range (°C) | Average Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Ocean Voyage 29 | 10 – 12 | — |
| Ocean Voyage 24 | 51.4 | 30 |
How the Seas Impact Flavor
Think of the swirling motion of whiskey in a Glass, which helps it interact with oxygen and develop its flavor. In a barrel, this movement is akin to blending ingredients rather than stirring them. The rolling of the ship across waves allows the whiskey to move within the barrel, interacting with the oak in unique ways. This, combined with the temperature and humidity effects on whiskey, creates a distinct set of tasting notes for each voyage.
The Significance of Oceanic Aging
It’s remarkable to see how these small-batch spirits evolve during their oceanic journeys. This method of aging is truly one-of-a-kind, making Jefferson’s Ocean whiskey a standout in the market. As more enthusiasts learn about its unique story, it’s expected that the limited stock available in Canada will sell quickly. With such a diverse range of expressions, many will likely want to collect more than one voyage release.
