Bourbon Oak Barrels: Features and Uses

Features of Bourbon Oak Barrels

Bourbon oak barrels are made from American Oak only and impart a honeyed and vanilla flavor to the liquid. This flavor comes from the natural sugars in the wood and the compound vanillin found in vanilla pods. The treatment of the inside of the barrel, whether charred, toasted or both, makes a big difference. Charred oak barrels (used for bourbon) add roasty, smoky flavors, toasted barrels add sweetness.

White American Oak

White American Oak is known for imparting heavy vanilla flavors. Much of this flavor is infused into the bourbon during the first fill of the barrels but some of the compounds remain in the wood even after the bourbon is drained. These barrels are perfect for reuse as they can still impart rich flavors. Ideal bourbon barrels are often made from oak trees that are over 50 years old so the wood has had time to develop the characteristics over the decades.

Watertight and Durable Design

Oak barrels used for aging bourbon have bubble like cellular structures called tyloses that bulge into the xylem cavities, blocking water movement. This natural design makes the barrel wood very watertight even with thinner staves. This is important for the mechanized oak bourbon barrel making process used in the USA so each barrel is durable and perfect for aging bourbon.

Repurposed Sherry Casks

Sherry casks made from European oak (Quercus robur) and American oak are also used for aging whiskey. Sherry casks, previously used for aging sherry, add a new layer of flavor to the whiskey during a process called finishing where bourbon is re-casked into a secondary vessel for a final maturation period. Beyond sherry, casks that have held wine, rum or port are sometimes used, adding more complexity and depth to the bourbon.

Sizes for Every Use

In our store you can find wood barrels for bourbon production, even for home use. We have various sizes to fit your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned distiller or a hobbyist looking to age your own bourbon at home we have the barrel for you.

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Check out our bourbon barrels and start making great bourbon. Feel good and successful in everything you do with the right equipment. Browse now and find the perfect barrel for you and your bourbon.