Old Charter Oak bourbon is made by the esteemed Buffalo Trace Distillery, located in Frankfort, Kentucky. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into the production of Old Charter Oak bourbon firsthand.
Buffalo Trace Distillery is renowned for its rich history and commitment to producing high-quality spirits. The distillery has been operating since 1787, making it one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States. Over the years, it has gained a reputation for its exceptional bourbons and a wide range of other spirits.
Old Charter Oak is a unique bourbon line within the Buffalo Trace Distillery's portfolio. It is named after the historic Charter Oak tree, which stood in Connecticut and was renowned for hiding the state's original charter in the 17th century. The Old Charter Oak series pays homage to this storied tree by aging the bourbon in barrels made from various types of oak, sourced from around the world.
The Old Charter Oak series showcases the influence of different oak varieties on the flavor profile of the bourbon. Each release is a limited edition, offering bourbon enthusiasts the opportunity to explore and appreciate the nuances imparted by different oak species.
One of the key factors that sets Old Charter Oak apart is the careful selection of oak barrels. The barrels used in the aging process are crucial in developing the bourbon's unique character. Buffalo Trace Distillery sources oak from different regions, including France, Hungary, and the United States, to create a diverse range of flavors and aromas.
The journey of making Old Charter Oak bourbon begins with the selection of the grain mash, which consists of corn, rye, and malted barley. The grains are carefully milled and mixed with water to create a mash that is then fermented using proprietary yeast strains. This fermentation process converts the sugars in the grains into alcohol, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic base for the bourbon.
Once fermentation is complete, the mash is distilled in copper stills, which help to remove impurities and further concentrate the flavors. Buffalo Trace Distillery is known for its traditional pot stills and column stills, which allow for a versatile and precise distillation process.
After distillation, the bourbon is placed into carefully selected oak barrels for maturation. The Old Charter Oak series utilizes barrels made from a variety of oak species, each contributing its own unique characteristics to the final product. The bourbon is aged for a specific period, allowing it to develop complexity, depth, and richness.
Throughout the aging process, the bourbon interacts with the oak, drawing out flavors and aromas from the wood. The specific characteristics of the oak species, such as the tightness of the grain and the presence of certain compounds, influence the final taste of the bourbon.
Once the bourbon has reached its desired maturity, it is carefully sampled and evaluated by the master distiller and blending team at Buffalo Trace Distillery. They ensure that each batch of Old Charter Oak meets their high standards of quality and flavor consistency.
Old Charter Oak bourbon is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of Buffalo Trace Distillery. The careful selection of oak barrels, the skillful distillation process, and the meticulous aging all contribute to the exceptional quality and unique character of this bourbon.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and analyzing Old Charter Oak bourbons from various releases. Each expression has captivated me with its distinct flavor profile, showcasing the influence of different oak species. From the rich and velvety mouthfeel to the complex layers of flavors, Old Charter Oak bourbon truly exemplifies the art of bourbon-making.
Old Charter Oak bourbon is made by the esteemed Buffalo Trace Distillery, a historic and highly regarded distillery based in Kentucky. The Old Charter Oak series highlights the influence of different oak species on the bourbon's flavor profile, offering bourbon enthusiasts a unique and captivating tasting experience. The dedication to craftsmanship and the careful selection of oak barrels are key factors in producing the exceptional quality and character of Old Charter Oak bourbon.