Glen Scotia Double Cask is a whisky that undergoes a unique aging process, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile. This expression is aged for a total of five years, but the journey doesn't stop there. The aging process starts in American oak barrels, which impart their own distinct characteristics to the whisky.
After spending five years in American oak barrels, the whisky is then transferred to another set of barrels for further maturation. In the case of Glen Scotia Double Cask, these secondary barrels are first-fill bourbon casks. First-fill means that these casks are being used for the first time to mature whisky, allowing the spirit to extract maximum flavor from the wood.
The whisky spends a significant amount of time in these bourbon casks, absorbing the flavors of the previous contents. This period of maturation adds depth and complexity to the whisky, enhancing its overall character.
But the journey doesn't end there. After its time in the first-fill bourbon casks, Glen Scotia Double Cask is then finished in demerara rum casks for an additional eight months. This finishing period allows the whisky to take on the unique flavors and aromas of the rum casks, creating a harmonious marriage of whisky and rum.
The use of demerara rum casks for finishing adds a touch of sweetness, warmth, and spiciness to the whisky, complementing the underlying flavors from the American oak and bourbon casks. This finishing process adds another layer of complexity to the final product, making it truly special.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and experiencing different aging processes in whiskies. The Glen Scotia Double Cask, with its five years of aging in American oak followed by the finishing in first-fill bourbon and demerara rum casks, showcases the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating a truly exceptional whisky.
The combination of the different cask types and the length of aging results in a whisky that is well-rounded, with a balance of flavors and a depth that can only be achieved through careful maturation. The resulting whisky is smooth, complex, and full of character, making it a delight to savor and enjoy.
Glen Scotia Double Cask is aged for a total of five years, with the first five years spent in American oak barrels and the final eight months in demerara rum casks. This unique aging process creates a whisky that is rich, complex, and full of flavor, showcasing the expertise and dedication of the distillers at Glen Scotia.