Old Charter Oak bourbon is produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery, a renowned distillery located in Frankfort, Kentucky. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing the exceptional craftsmanship that goes into the production of Old Charter Oak bourbon firsthand.
Buffalo Trace Distillery, with its rich history dating back to 1787, is known for its commitment to producing high-quality spirits. They have a wide range of award-winning bourbons in their portfolio, and Old Charter Oak is no exception. This particular bourbon is part of their Experimental Collection, which showcases their innovative approach to whiskey-making.
The name “Old Charter Oak” pays homage to an ancient oak tree that stood on the property of the distillery until it fell in 1997. This tree, known as the Charter Oak, had witnessed countless seasons and significant milestones in the distillery's history. Buffalo Trace Distillery decided to honor its legacy by creating a series of bourbons that would push the boundaries of flavor and aging techniques.
What makes Old Charter Oak bourbon truly unique is the use of different oak varieties for maturation. Each release in the series explores the influence of a specific oak type on the flavor profile of the bourbon. This experimentation allows whiskey enthusiasts like myself to embark on a sensory journey, discovering the nuances and complexities brought about by different oak species.
Buffalo Trace Distillery sources oak barrels from various regions across the United States and even abroad. These barrels are carefully selected based on their specific characteristics, such as the tightness of the grain and the previous contents they held. The distillery then fills these barrels with their signature bourbon and allows them to age for an extended period, allowing the flavors to develop and evolve.
One release in the Old Charter Oak series that particularly stands out is the Chinkapin Oak finish. Chinkapin Oak is a species native to the Eastern United States and is known for its sweet and nutty flavors. The bourbon aged in Chinkapin Oak barrels takes on these unique characteristics, adding layers of complexity to the final product. I had the pleasure of tasting this particular release, and I was blown away by the balance of flavors and the smoothness of the bourbon.
Another notable release is the Mongolian Oak finish, which showcases the influence of oak from Mongolia. This oak species has a distinct flavor profile, imparting notes of spice, vanilla, and caramel to the bourbon. It's fascinating to witness how the choice of oak can significantly impact the overall taste and aroma of the whiskey.
In my opinion, Buffalo Trace Distillery's commitment to experimentation and innovation is what sets Old Charter Oak bourbon apart. The distillery's dedication to sourcing unique oak varieties and exploring their impact on the final product is truly commendable. Each release in the Old Charter Oak series offers a new and exciting experience for bourbon enthusiasts, allowing them to delve deeper into the world of whiskey and appreciate the artistry behind its creation.
Old Charter Oak bourbon is a testament to Buffalo Trace Distillery's expertise and passion for crafting exceptional spirits. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of bourbon, I highly recommend exploring the Old Charter Oak series to discover the remarkable flavors that can be achieved through innovative aging techniques and the influence of different oak varieties.