When it comes to Wilderness Trail bourbon, you can rest assured that it has been properly aged to perfection. The aging process is a crucial step in the production of bourbon, as it allows the flavors to develop and mellow over time. Wilderness Trail takes great care in ensuring that their bourbon is aged for just the right amount of time to achieve the desired taste profile.
The aging period for Wilderness Trail bourbon is between 5-6 years. This is considered to be a sweet spot for bourbon aging, as it allows the spirit to develop complex flavors and aromas without becoming overly woody or tannic. During this time, the bourbon is stored in charred oak barrels, which impart rich flavors and colors to the spirit.
The decision to age Wilderness Trail bourbon for this specific timeframe is a deliberate one. The distillers at Wilderness Trail believe that this is the optimal amount of time for their bourbon to reach its full potential. They have carefully honed their aging process over the years to ensure that each batch of bourbon is consistent in quality and flavor.
One of the reasons Wilderness Trail bourbon is aged for 5-6 years is to comply with the regulations set forth by the Bottled in Bond Act. This act, passed in 1897, established certain standards that bourbon must meet in order to be labeled as “Bottled in Bond.” These standards include being distilled at one distillery, aged for a minimum of four years in a federally bonded warehouse, and bottled at 100 proof.
By aging their bourbon for 5-6 years, Wilderness Trail not only ensures that their product meets the requirements of the Bottled in Bond Act, but also that it has had ample time to develop the desired flavors and characteristics. The longer aging period allows the bourbon to take on more of the oak and caramel notes that are characteristic of well-aged bourbon.
In my personal experience, I have found that bourbons aged for 5-6 years tend to have a nice balance of flavors. They are not overly harsh or astringent, but still have enough complexity to be enjoyed neat or in cocktails. The aging process mellows out any rough edges and allows the flavors to meld together in a harmonious way.
The 5-6 year aging period for Wilderness Trail bourbon is a testament to the distillers' commitment to producing a high-quality product. By taking the time to properly age their bourbon, they are able to create a spirit that is rich in flavor and enjoyable to drink. So, the next time you pour yourself a glass of Wilderness Trail bourbon, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship that went into aging it to perfection.