Rabbit Hole Dareringer is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey that undergoes a unique aging process to achieve its exceptional flavor profile. The whiskey starts its journey by being aged for a minimum of five years in #4 Char barrels, which are known for their ability to impart deep flavors and rich color to the spirit.
The choice of using a wheat mash bill in the production of this bourbon adds a distinct smoothness and creaminess to the final product. Wheat is often used as an alternative to the more traditional corn-based mash bills, and it brings its own unique character to the whiskey.
After the initial aging period in the #4 Char barrels, the whiskey is then transferred to hand-selected sherry casks for further maturation and finishing. This additional step sets Rabbit Hole Dareringer apart from other bourbons and gives it a refined and balanced flavor profile.
Sherry casks, typically made from European oak, are known for their ability to impart fruity and nutty flavors to the spirit. The interaction between the bourbon and the sherry casks during the finishing period adds complexity and depth to the overall flavor profile of Dareringer.
The length of time spent in the sherry casks is not explicitly stated by the distillery, but it can vary depending on the desired flavor profile and the master distiller's judgment. The goal is to achieve the perfect balance between the bourbon's natural characteristics and the influence of the sherry casks.
In my personal experience, I have found that whiskies aged in sherry casks tend to develop a richer and more rounded flavor profile. The interaction between the bourbon and the sherry casks allows for the exchange of flavors, resulting in a harmonious marriage of fruitiness, spice, and oak.
The additional aging and finishing period in the sherry casks undoubtedly contribute to the complexity and refinement of Rabbit Hole Dareringer. The result is a bourbon that combines the boldness and character of a straight bourbon whiskey with the elegance and sophistication of a sherry-finished spirit.
While the exact length of time that Rabbit Hole Dareringer spends in the sherry casks is not specified, it is clear that this additional aging and finishing step is crucial in creating a truly exceptional and well-balanced bourbon.