The origin of the Angel's Share legend is often associated with either Ireland or England, but it is highly likely that the idea was carried over from the French phrase “la part des anges.” This phrase refers to the loss of alcohol during the barrel aging process, specifically in the case of French Brandy or Cognac.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have encountered the concept of the Angel's Share numerous times in my career. It is a fascinating aspect of the aging process and adds a touch of mystery to the production of spirits. The term “la part des anges” is deeply rooted in the French tradition of producing Cognac, where the evaporation of alcohol during maturation is seen as a natural and inevitable occurrence.
In the production of Cognac, the spirit is aged in oak barrels, allowing it to develop rich flavors and aromas over time. However, during this aging process, a small portion of the alcohol evaporates through the pores of the wooden cask. This loss is referred to as the Angel's Share, as if the angels themselves are enjoying a portion of the spirit.
The idea of the Angel's Share has captured the imagination of many, and it has become a popular metaphorical concept in the world of spirits and aging. It symbolizes the sacrifice and patience required in the production of high-quality aged spirits. The notion that the angels are taking their share has a certain romantic appeal, adding to the allure and mystique surrounding these beverages.
While the exact origin of the Angel's Share legend is not known for certain, it is likely that it has been passed down through generations of distillers, blenders, and enthusiasts. The concept is not limited to Cognac or even French spirits, as it has been embraced by whisky producers around the world as well.
In my personal experience, I have witnessed the impact of the Angel's Share in the aging process of various spirits. Whether it is a single malt Scotch whisky or a small-batch bourbon, there is always a certain amount of evaporation that occurs during maturation. This loss can vary depending on factors such as climate, humidity, and the quality of the casks used.
The Angel's Share is not just a romantic notion, but it also has practical implications for the production and pricing of aged spirits. The longer a spirit is aged, the more evaporation occurs, resulting in a smaller quantity of the final product. This can make older spirits more expensive and harder to come by, as the yield is significantly reduced.
While the Angel's Share legend is often associated with Ireland or England, it is highly likely that its origin can be traced back to the French phrase “la part des anges” used in the production of Cognac. This concept of evaporation during barrel aging has captured the imagination of spirits enthusiasts worldwide, adding a touch of mystery and romance to the process of creating aged spirits.