As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed explanation of the difference between single barrel and double barrel bourbon. Let's dive in!
Single barrel bourbon, as the name suggests, is whiskey that has been aged in a single barrel throughout its entire maturation process. This means that the whiskey is not transferred to another barrel at any point. The aging process in a single barrel allows for a unique and distinct flavor profile to develop, as each barrel imparts its own characteristics onto the whiskey. This results in a whiskey that is often rich, complex, and full-bodied.
On the other hand, double barrel bourbon takes the aging process a step further. After being aged in one barrel for a certain period of time, the whiskey is then transferred to another barrel for an additional aging period. This second barrel can be made of the same type of wood or a different type, such as a different variety of oak. The purpose of this second barrel aging is to further enhance and refine the flavors of the whiskey.
The process of double barrel aging can have a significant impact on the final product. The second barrel imparts additional flavors and aromas to the whiskey, resulting in a more layered and nuanced profile. It can add depth, sweetness, and complexity to the whiskey, as well as smooth out any rough edges that may have been present after the initial aging period.
One important thing to note is that the length of time the whiskey spends in each barrel can vary. Some double barrel bourbons may spend equal amounts of time in each barrel, while others may have a longer initial aging period followed by a shorter second aging period. This can have an influence on the overall flavor profile of the whiskey.
In my personal experience, I have found that double barrel bourbons often exhibit a smoother and more refined character compared to their single barrel counterparts. The additional aging in the second barrel allows for a more harmonious integration of flavors, resulting in a whiskey that is well-balanced and enjoyable to drink.
To summarize the difference between single barrel and double barrel bourbon, single barrel bourbon is aged in one barrel throughout its maturation process, while double barrel bourbon is transferred to a second barrel for an additional aging period. This additional aging can enhance the flavors and complexity of the whiskey, resulting in a more refined and nuanced final product.