Wine-Finished Bourbons: Elevate Your Whiskey Experience
In recent years, the world of bourbon has seen an intriguing trend: the rise of wine-finished bourbons. These spirits take the classic bourbon profile and accentuate it with additional layers of flavor, thanks to the final maturation in wine casks. Exploring such combinations not only diversifies the whiskey repertoire but also appeals to both bourbon aficionados and wine enthusiasts. Here, we delve into some standout wine-finished bourbons that are worth a taste.
The Attraction of Wine Cask Finishing
Wine cask finishing involves aging bourbon in barrels that previously held wines, such as port, cabernet sauvignon, or other varietals. This process infuses the bourbon with subtle hints of fruit and tannins that complement its inherent caramel and vanilla notes. The result is a complex spirit with enhanced depth and flavor complexity, offering a unique tasting journey for those willing to explore beyond traditional bourbon.
Top Picks for Wine-Finished Bourbons
- Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon: This bourbon is a crowd favorite, known for its smooth finish derived from a 6-month stint in ruby port wine barrels. At 86.6 proof, it balances sweetness and richness, making it approachable for new enthusiasts while offering sufficient complexity for seasoned drinkers.
- Jefferson’s Reserve Pritchard Hill Cabernet Cask Finish: Combining the elegance of Chappellet Winery’s cabernet barrels with the robust flavor of Jefferson’s Reserve Bourbon, this expression introduces luscious notes of dark berries, espresso, and chocolate, perfect for pairing with desserts.
- Bardstown Bourbon Company “The Prisoner”: A nine-year-old bourbon that spends 18 months in barrels previously used for “The Prisoner,” a popular red blend wine. The luxurious red fruit flavors make it a stand-out option, especially when enjoyed alongside gourmet dishes.
Understanding the Controversy
While the practice of cask finishing in wine barrels is gaining popularity, it also stirs some debate in the bourbon community. Traditionalists argue that once bourbon is aged beyond the original charred oak barrels, it ceases to be “pure” bourbon. Nevertheless, many argue that finishing is distinct from the primary aging process and highlights creativity rather than deviating from tradition.
Why Try Wine-Finished Bourbons?
- **Enhanced Flavor Depth**: The secondary maturation introduces layers of fruity and tannic notes, enhancing the bourbon’s original taste profile.
- **Innovative Expressions**: Wine-finished bourbons provide a unique tasting experience that can’t be found in standard bourbon offerings.
- **Culinary Pairing Opportunities**: These bourbons pair remarkably well with a range of foods, particularly meats, cheeses, and desserts.
The exploration of wine-finished bourbons offers an exciting flavor adventure for those willing to branch out from the usual whiskey horizon. Whether you lean towards port-infused sweetness or cabernet’s deep berry undertones, these bourbons bring a distinctive twist to the much-loved American spirit.
