Double oaked whiskey, such as Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, is a unique and innovative approach to bourbon production. It involves the process of maturing the whiskey in two separate oak barrels, each imparting its own distinct flavors and characteristics to the final product.
The first barrel used in the double oaked process is charred, which means that the inside of the barrel is intentionally burned to create a layer of charred wood. This charring process helps to caramelize the natural sugars present in the oak, resulting in flavors of caramel, vanilla, and toffee. It also adds depth and complexity to the whiskey, as the charred wood interacts with the spirit over time.
After the initial maturation period in the charred barrel, the whiskey is then transferred to a second barrel for further aging. However, unlike the first barrel, the second barrel is not heavily charred. Instead, it is deeply toasted, which means that the wood is heated to a high temperature to release its natural flavors without burning it. This toasting process imparts additional soft, sweet oak character to the whiskey, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
The double oaked process allows for a more nuanced and layered flavor profile in the whiskey. The initial maturation in the charred barrel imparts rich, deep flavors of caramel, vanilla, and toffee, while the second maturation in the toasted barrel adds a softer, sweeter oak character. The combination of these two barrels results in a whiskey that is rich, complex, and full-bodied.
One of the advantages of double oaked whiskey is the ability to experiment with different types of oak and toasting levels, which can greatly influence the final flavor profile. By using different types of oak, such as American oak or French oak, and adjusting the level of toasting, distillers can create a wide range of flavor variations in the whiskey.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and appreciate the unique flavors of double oaked whiskeys. The combination of the charred and toasted barrels adds layers of complexity and depth to the whiskey, creating a truly enjoyable drinking experience. The rich caramel notes from the charred barrel and the softer oak flavors from the toasted barrel come together harmoniously, resulting in a balanced and flavorful whiskey.
Double oaked whiskey, like Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, offers a unique and innovative twist on traditional bourbon production. The process of maturing the whiskey in two separate barrels allows for the extraction of additional flavors and characteristics from the oak, resulting in a rich and colorful flavor profile. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, double oaked whiskey is sure to delight whiskey enthusiasts with its complexity and depth.