When it comes to liquid sourcing, finding the right amount of spirits, the right prices, and even the perfect flavors can be challenging without knowing the specifics. While a variety of brands have taken on their own version of barrel aged liquor, the aging process and how it affects flavoring, along with pricing is generally the same.
If you’re in the market for a unique whiskey investment, or you’re just looking to learn more about barrel aged spirits, you’ve come to the right place. The alcohol experts here at Brindiamo Group have compiled a list of what you need to know.
Here are a few ways aging can affect spirit pricing:
- How long spirits are aged
- Where the spirit was aged
- What type of barrel was used
- What DSP or Master Distiller made the spirit
- What are the costs and types of raw materials used in the spirit & more
Spirit Aging Process
The alcohol aging process can entail long term storage. While some distilleries will have their own team of coopers (barrel repair technicians) to make their storage barrels, others may outsource these processes. The goal of this maturation process is to remove harsh flavors from the raw liquid.
In doing so, these liquors can pick up the distinct flavor characteristics found in the barrel’s wood, such as smoky flavors, hints of vanilla and so much more. Alcohol aging barrels are typically made of oak, which can sometimes be charred. While other woods may be used, each type of wood used will play a role in determining the final flavor profile of the stored spirit.
And, with that in mind, some wood types are not compatible for long term liquid storage. Of the most commonly aged liquors, brandy and whiskey often require a minimum of 3 years prior to bottling — depending on the style. For many rums and tequilas, these can be aged as well, the aging requirements vary by the spirit type and qualification they are looking to receive.
Contact Brindiamo Group today to learn more about the bulk sourcing process!
Barrel Aging Effects
Like vodka, an alcohol will be clear and relatively flavorless before it enters the barrel. A spirit matured in a barrel will be forced to integrate with the type of wood it is encapsulated in. Due to this effect, barrel aged liquor will pick up flavors and colors from the wood, resulting in a dark spirit we are familiar with like whiskey.
After an alcohol has undergone aging, you will first be able to notice that aged liquor is darker than unaged liquor. From aged spirits such as bourbon or whiskey, you’ll be able to notice amber or golden brown colors in as few as 6 months, while spirits like base white rum or vodka will most frequently be clear as they are not typically aged in barrels.
While there is an exception to almost every rule, such as moonshine being an unaged whiskey in a mostly aged world, barrel aging tends to encompass darker, gold liquors. Secondly, after this process, you are bound to notice the unique flavor profile of a barrel aged spirit. These can often be characterized by the following.
Types of Oakwood Used for Barrel Aging Spirits
- American White Oak: Great for aging whisky, bourbon, and scotch. Characterized by fragrant notes of vanilla, caramel, and coconut.
- Mongolian Oak: Referred to as Japanese Oak or Mizunara. Distinguished by flavors of spiced rye, oriental incense, and sandalwood tones.
- European Oak: Flavors of spice, vanilla, and bitter undertones. Offers a tighter grain structure and is more absorbent than other barrels.
- Sessile Oak: Known as the Irish oak, this is commonly found in Europe and used for aging cognac.
Prices, Purchasing & More
When it comes to purchasing adult liquid, whether you need bulk solutions or a one time purchase, prices will vary based on age. The market sometimes believes that higher quality spirits tend to be aged for a longer periods of time. With this in mind, the artistry and time that goes into these liquors is much greater than a 3 year minimum grade whiskey.
Because of this, these higher quality spirits will tend to have a higher price tag to reflect this extra mellowing time. For instance, a 50-year-old scotch will be more expensive than a 10-year-old scotch. Just like an art piece or even a vintage car, the longer an alcohol stays maturing in it’s barrel, the more you’re going to pay. With that in mind, aging isn’t the only factor in liquor pricing. The Mashbill, or recipe of your aged liquor will also play a role in what you pay. Barrel aged liquor that uses higher concentrations of rye will also tend to be on the more expensive side.
As rye flavorings tend to add a bit more of an aggressive punch to their sweeter bourbon counterparts, these flavors can take a longer time to mature but will offer a higher alcohol proof to even about 75%. While older barrel aged or rye liquor may be more expensive, what you receive is a rich, potent, warm, spicy and delicious liquor. At Brindiamo Group, we oversee 200,000 barrels in our inventory, meaning your bulk liquid needs can be sourced quickly and efficiently.
Brindiamo Group Helps Companies get into the Alcohol Business
Investing in the right liquor for you or your business can be a difficult feat, especially if you’re
new to the alcoholic beverage industry. When considering whether or not to invest in the alcohol industry, you may need some more help deciding what is right for you or your business.
While it can sometimes also be a challenge to connect with the right companies, Brindiamo Group can help get you connected with the right product. Contact Brindiamo Group today!