The IW Harper Cabernet Cask is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey that undergoes a unique aging process to achieve its exceptional flavor profile. This particular expression is aged for a total of four years, which is a significant amount of time for a bourbon.
During this aging period, the whiskey is matured in new charred American oak barrels. These barrels play a vital role in imparting flavor and character to the spirit. The charred interior of the barrels interacts with the bourbon, allowing it to develop rich and complex flavors over time. This process is crucial for creating a well-rounded and balanced bourbon.
However, what sets the IW Harper Cabernet Cask apart is its additional aging in luxury California Cabernet Sauvignon casks. This secondary maturation takes place after the initial four years in oak barrels. The bourbon is transferred to these Cabernet casks, which were previously used to age red wine.
The influence of these Cabernet casks on the bourbon is remarkable. The residual wine flavors and aromas from the casks infuse into the whiskey, adding layers of complexity and depth. This unique finishing process contributes to the IW Harper Cabernet Cask's distinct flavor profile, making it a truly special bourbon.
Personally, I find the combination of four years in oak barrels followed by the finishing period in Cabernet casks to be an intriguing and innovative approach to aging bourbon. This additional aging imparts a velvety smoothness and a refined complexity to the whiskey, making it a delight to savor.
The IW Harper Cabernet Cask is aged for four years in new charred American oak barrels, followed by a period of finishing in luxury California Cabernet Sauvignon casks. This meticulous aging process results in a bourbon that is truly exceptional in flavor and character.