PX sherry casks refer to the use of Pedro Ximenez sherry barrels in the aging process of other alcoholic beverages, such as bourbon. Pedro Ximenez (PX) is a white grape variety that is primarily grown in the Montilla-Moriles region in Spain. It is known for its high sugar content and is used to produce sweet and rich fortified wines, including PX sherry.
When it comes to bourbon, the use of different types of barrels for aging has become quite popular in recent years. One such type is the PX sherry cask, which imparts unique flavors and characteristics to the bourbon. However, it is important to note that the bourbon itself must still adhere to the legal requirement of containing at least 51% corn in its mash bill.
To understand the influence of PX sherry casks on bourbon, it's crucial to appreciate the distinct qualities of Pedro Ximenez sherry. PX sherry is made by sun-drying the harvested grapes, which concentrates the sugars and intensifies the flavors. The resulting wine is incredibly sweet, dark, and viscous, with notes of raisins, figs, caramel, and molasses.
When bourbon is aged in PX sherry casks, it absorbs some of these flavors and characteristics, adding complexity and depth to the final product. The residual sweetness from the sherry can complement the natural sweetness of the bourbon, creating a harmonious balance on the palate. The dried fruit and caramel notes from the sherry casks can also enhance the overall flavor profile of the bourbon, offering a rich and indulgent drinking experience.
It's worth mentioning that the use of PX sherry casks in bourbon aging is just one of many types of cask finishes that distilleries experiment with. Other popular cask finishes include port, Madeira, rum, and wine barrels, each imparting its own unique influence on the bourbon.
In my experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste bourbons that have been finished in PX sherry casks. These expressions often exhibit a pronounced sweetness and a rich, velvety mouthfeel. The dried fruit and caramel notes are usually prominent, and there is often a lingering sweetness on the finish. However, it's important to note that the extent of the sherry influence can vary depending on the length of time the bourbon spends in the cask and the quality of the sherry itself.
To summarize, PX sherry casks are barrels made from Pedro Ximenez sherry that are used in the aging process of bourbon. The use of these casks adds sweetness, dried fruit, and caramel notes to the bourbon, resulting in a unique and indulgent drinking experience. However, it's important to remember that bourbon must still adhere to its legal requirements, such as containing at least 51% corn, even if it is labeled as “PX sherry cask finish bourbon.”