Sherry seasoned refers to a specific type of cask used in the whisky-making process. These casks are made from American oak and are seasoned with sherry before being used to age whisky. The sherry seasoning process involves filling the casks with sherry and allowing them to absorb the flavors and aromas of the sherry for a period of time. This can range from two to sometimes even five years.
The use of sherry seasoned casks in whisky production has a long history and is a traditional method employed by distilleries in Scotland. The casks used for sherry seasoning were originally used for transporting sherry from Spain to Scotland. After being emptied of their contents, the casks would be shipped back to Scotland, where they would be refilled with whisky for aging.
One of the key differences between the old transport casks and modern seasoned sherry casks is the type of sherry used. In the past, the casks would have been used to transport a variety of different sherries, including fino, amontillado, or oloroso. Each type of sherry would impart different flavors and characteristics to the cask, which would then be transferred to the whisky during aging.
In modern times, distilleries typically use a specific type of sherry for seasoning their casks. This is usually oloroso sherry, which is known for its rich, nutty, and dried fruit flavors. The casks are filled with oloroso sherry and left to sit for a period of time, allowing the wood to absorb the sherry and develop its own unique character.
Once the casks have been seasoned with sherry, they are then ready to be filled with whisky. The sherry seasoning imparts a range of flavors and aromas to the whisky, including notes of dried fruits, nuts, spice, and sometimes a hint of sweetness. These flavors can vary depending on the length of time the casks were seasoned, as well as the type of sherry used.
The use of sherry seasoned casks in whisky production adds complexity and depth to the final product. The interaction between the whisky and the sherry-infused wood creates a harmonious marriage of flavors, resulting in a whisky with a unique and distinctive character.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of tasting whiskies aged in sherry seasoned casks and have been impressed by the depth of flavors they possess. The dried fruit and nutty notes from the sherry complemented the rich and smooth characteristics of the whisky, creating a truly enjoyable drinking experience.
Sherry seasoned refers to the process of using casks that have been seasoned with sherry to age whisky. These casks, typically made from American oak, are filled with sherry for a period of time before being used to age whisky. The type of sherry used and the length of time the casks are seasoned can greatly influence the flavors and aromas imparted to the whisky. The use of sherry seasoned casks adds complexity and depth to the final product, resulting in a whisky with a unique and distinctive character.