Deanston Virgin Oak whiskey does not have an age statement, but based on the information available, it is estimated to be between 6-8 years old. This means that the whisky has been maturing in oak casks for a significant amount of time, allowing it to develop complex flavors and aromas.
The aging process of Deanston Virgin Oak begins in ex-bourbon barrels. These barrels have previously held bourbon, which imparts certain characteristics to the whisky. The time spent in ex-bourbon casks allows the spirit to absorb flavors such as vanilla, caramel, and oak.
After the initial aging period, the whisky is then transferred to new, American oak barrels for finishing. This step adds an extra layer of flavor to the whisky, as the new oak imparts its own unique characteristics. The use of new barrels ensures that the whisky interacts more intensely with the wood, resulting in a more pronounced oak influence.
The choice to finish the whisky in new oak is an interesting one. New oak barrels have a more intense impact on the spirit compared to used barrels, as they have not been previously seasoned by other spirits. This can contribute to a richer and more robust flavor profile in the finished whisky.
Another notable aspect of Deanston Virgin Oak is that it is un-chill-filtered. Chill filtration is a process commonly used in whisky production to remove any impurities or sediment that may cloud the spirit when it is chilled. However, this process can also remove some of the natural oils and flavors present in the whisky. By opting for un-chill filtration, Deanston allows the whisky to retain its full flavor and character.
The bottling strength of Deanston Virgin Oak is 92.6 proof, which is equivalent to 46.3% alcohol by volume. This higher proof contributes to a more intense and robust flavor profile, allowing the nuances of the whisky to shine through.
In terms of personal experiences, I have had the pleasure of tasting Deanston Virgin Oak whiskey on a few occasions. I found it to be a well-balanced and enjoyable dram. The combination of ex-bourbon and new oak maturation resulted in a complex flavor profile, with notes of vanilla, caramel, spice, and a hint of oak. The higher proof added a pleasant warmth to the whisky, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
While Deanston Virgin Oak whiskey does not have a specified age statement, it is estimated to be between 6-8 years old. The use of ex-bourbon and new oak barrels, along with the decision to leave the whisky un-chill filtered, contributes to the unique and flavorful character of this Highland single malt.