The demand for bourbon whiskey has been steadily increasing over the past decade, and it shows no signs of slowing down. As a sommelier and brewer, I have witnessed firsthand the surge in popularity of this beloved spirit. However, with this rise in demand comes a pressing question: will bourbon supply ever meet demand?
To fully explore this topic, it is important to understand the aging process of bourbon. Unlike many other spirits, bourbon must legally be aged in new charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years. This aging process imparts unique flavors and characteristics to the whiskey, making it the beloved drink that it is today. However, this also means that the production of bourbon is a time-consuming and patient process.
Unfortunately, the supply of bourbon that has been aging for many years is simply not sufficient to meet today's demand. This is due to a variety of factors, including the growing popularity of bourbon and the limited production capacity of distilleries. While some distilleries have been expanding their operations to keep up with demand, it takes years for the whiskey to properly age and be ready for sale.
As a result, we are currently facing a shortage of aged bourbon. This has led to increased prices and limited availability of certain brands and expressions. Bourbon enthusiasts have been patiently waiting for their favorite bottles to become available, but the reality is that it will take time for the industry to catch up with the demand.
However, it is not all doom and gloom. The bourbon industry is aware of the demand and is actively working to expand production capacity. Distilleries are investing in new equipment, increasing their barrel storage capabilities, and even opening new facilities to meet the growing interest in bourbon. While these efforts are promising, it will still be several years before the whiskeys being produced today can be properly aged and ready for sale.
In the meantime, bourbon lovers have been exploring alternative options. Some distilleries have released younger expressions or limited edition releases to satisfy the demand for aged bourbon. Additionally, whiskey enthusiasts have been turning to other styles of whiskey, such as rye or single malt, to broaden their palate and explore new flavors.
While the demand for bourbon continues to exceed the current supply, the industry is actively working to bridge this gap. Expansion efforts and investments in production capacity are underway, but it will take time for the aging process to catch up with the demand. In the meantime, bourbon lovers may need to explore alternative options or exercise patience as they wait for their favorite bottles to become more readily available.