The difference between bourbon and finished bourbon lies in the aging process. Bourbon is a type of whiskey that is typically aged in new, charred oak barrels. These barrels impart flavors and characteristics to the bourbon as it matures over time. However, sometimes distillers choose to take the aging process one step further by finishing the bourbon in another type of barrel.
When a batch of bourbon is finished, it means that after the initial aging period in new oak barrels, it is transferred to another barrel for further maturation. These finishing barrels are not new barrels, but rather barrels that have been previously used to age other spirits such as rum, port, or sherry. The remnants of these spirits that remain in the finishing barrels can interact with the bourbon, adding new layers of flavor and complexity.
The use of finishing barrels provides distillers with a creative opportunity to experiment and create unique flavor profiles in their bourbons. By selecting specific types of barrels, they can impart different characteristics to the bourbon, resulting in a wide range of flavor variations.
For example, finishing bourbon in a rum barrel can infuse it with notes of tropical fruits, spices, and a touch of sweetness. On the other hand, finishing bourbon in a sherry barrel can add rich, dried fruit flavors like raisins and figs, along with hints of nuttiness and a deep, amber color.
The length of time that bourbon spends in finishing barrels can vary depending on the desired outcome. Some bourbons may only spend a few months in finishing barrels, while others may be aged for several years. This additional aging period allows the bourbon to further develop and integrate the flavors from the finishing barrel.
It's important to note that not all bourbons are finished. Some distillers choose to bottle their bourbon after the initial aging period in new oak barrels, without any additional finishing. These bourbons are still delicious and full of flavor, but they may have a different profile compared to finished bourbons.
The difference between bourbon and finished bourbon lies in the additional aging process. Finished bourbon is aged in another type of barrel, such as rum, port, or sherry, after the initial maturation in new oak barrels. This finishing process adds unique flavors and characteristics to the bourbon, resulting in a more complex and diverse range of profiles.