Does whisky alcohol evaporate?

Does whisky alcohol evaporate?

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that yes, whisky alcohol does indeed evaporate. When whisky is left to slowly mature in its cask, a small portion of the liquid evaporates through the wood and into the atmosphere. This phenomenon is often referred to as the “angel's share” or the “sacrifice to the heavens.”

Over the years, whisky enthusiasts and professionals have come to accept this evaporation as a natural and unavoidable part of the aging process. It is estimated that approximately 2% of the whisky evaporates each year, although this percentage can vary depending on various factors such as the type of cask and the environmental conditions in which the whisky is stored.

The evaporation of alcohol from whisky not only affects the volume of the liquid but also has an impact on its flavor profile. As the alcohol evaporates, the concentration of the remaining whisky changes, leading to a more concentrated and complex flavor. This is why older whiskies are often prized for their depth and richness.

Personally, I have had the opportunity to witness the effects of evaporation on whisky during my time as a brewer. I remember visiting a distillery in Scotland where they stored their whisky casks in a warehouse with high humidity. The master distiller explained to me that the higher humidity allowed for a slower evaporation rate, resulting in a more gradual maturation process and a unique character in the whisky.

It's important to note that while the evaporation of alcohol is a natural occurrence, distilleries take precautions to minimize the loss of their precious liquid. Casks are often sealed tightly to prevent excessive evaporation, and some distilleries even opt for warehouses with controlled humidity levels to regulate the evaporation process.

Whisky alcohol does evaporate during the maturation process. This evaporation, known as the angel's share, is considered a sacrifice to the heavens and contributes to the unique character and flavor profile of the whisky. While it may result in a slight reduction in volume, it adds to the overall complexity and richness of the spirit. So, the next time you raise a glass of well-aged whisky, remember to thank the angels for their share.