Freeland bourbon is aged for a period of three years in newly charred American oak barrels. This aging process allows the bourbon to develop its rich and complex flavors. The use of new oak barrels is important as it imparts unique characteristics to the bourbon, such as notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak.
After the initial three-year aging period, Freeland Spirits takes their bourbon a step further by blending it with 12-year-old bourbon. This blending process adds depth and maturity to the final product. The older bourbon brings a wealth of flavors and aromas that have had more time to develop and integrate. It adds complexity and balance to the overall profile of the bourbon.
One distinct aspect of Freeland bourbon is its Pacific Northwest taste, which is achieved through a unique aging process. After the blending of the three-year-old and 12-year-old bourbons, the blend is then rested in pinot noir barrels from Elk Cove, an Oregon winery. These pinot noir barrels infuse the bourbon with subtle hints of fruity and earthy flavors from the wine that was previously aged in them. This additional time spent in the pinot noir barrels gives the bourbon its Pacific Northwest character.
The choice of pinot noir barrels is significant as it brings a sense of terroir to the bourbon. Terroir refers to the influence of the local environment on the flavors and characteristics of a product. By using barrels that previously held Oregon pinot noir, Freeland Spirits is able to capture the essence of the region and create a bourbon that is uniquely Pacific Northwest.
Personally, I find the aging process of Freeland bourbon to be fascinating. The combination of the three-year-old and 12-year-old bourbons, along with the influence of the pinot noir barrels, creates a complex and layered spirit. The aging process allows the bourbon to develop a depth of flavor that is truly exceptional.
Freeland bourbon is aged for three years in newly charred American oak barrels and then blended with 12-year-old bourbon. The final blend is then rested in pinot noir barrels from Elk Cove, adding a Pacific Northwest taste to the bourbon. This careful aging process results in a bourbon that is rich, complex, and full of character.