There are all sorts of whisky varieties out there, but have you heard of single-cask whisky?
This unique type is made from one barrel of whisky, and that’s it. Because it’s so limited in production, single-cask whisky is a luxury item.
This is the perfect drink if you’re looking to impress your friends or celebrate a special occasion. Keep reading to learn more about single-cask whisky and where you can find it.
What is Single-Cask Whisky?
When it comes to whisky, single-cask is about as pure and unadulterated as it gets. This type of whisky is made from a single barrel and has not been blended with other whiskies. This results in a whisky that is truly unique and can vary significantly from barrel to barrel.
History of Single-Cask Whisky
Single-cask whisky has a long and storied history. Bottling whisky from a single cask dates back to the 18th century when distillers in Scotland began bottling their whiskies into small barrels known as “quarter casks.” These small casks were famous among distillers because they allowed them to bottle their whiskies at higher proof levels than the larger casks that were commonly used at the time.
Over time, the popularity of single-cask whiskies grew, and distillers began bottling their whiskies into larger casks, such as the hogshead and butt. Today, single-cask whiskies are typically bottled in either ex-bourbon or ex-sherry barrels.
Production of Single-Cask Whisky
The production of single-cask whisky is a slow and painstaking process. First, the distiller must select a barrel that they believe will produce a whisky with the desired flavor profile. Once the barrel has been chosen, the distiller will fill it with new make spirit and allow it to age for many years.
During the aging process, the spirit will slowly take on characteristics from the wood of the cask. This includes flavors such as vanilla, caramel, and spice. The time that the whisky is left to age will also play a role in its final flavor profile.
When the whisky has reached the desired age, it is bottled without diluting or filtering. This results in a whisky that is full of flavor and character.
Single-cask whiskies are typically bottled at higher proof levels than other whiskies, such as blended whisky. This is because the flavors from the cask are more concentrated when the whisky is not diluted.
Where to Find Single-Cask Whisky
If you want to try single-cask whisky, your best bet is to visit a specialty liquor store or whisky bar. Many distilleries also offer single-cask bottlings, but you may have difficulty finding some from anywhere else.
Taste the Difference
Single-cask whisky is often considered to be some of the purest and most flavourful whisky around. This spirit is an authentic luxury item and will impress any whisky lover. If you’re looking for a unique and special whisky, look no further than a single cask. Cheers!