Though lauded for their impact on a dram, whisky casks are really mere spectators of maturation, with the bulk of the work done by changes in atmospheric pressure and humidity. The recent hot, humid weather is caused by areas of high pressure, which (as well as bringing sunshine and thunderstorms) forces the whisky into the staves, to pick up more colour and flavour from the compounds in the wood. This process is repeated time and again with the opposite happening when it cools and we get areas of low pressure. Then, the whisky is drawn back out of the staves, bringing the flavour and colour compounds with it to dissipate throughout the liquid.
High pressure also tightens the staves meaning less oxidisation and a richer spirit with a higher ABV (again the opposite happens when it’s cold, the staves relax and more oxygen enters but more alcohol escapes as angels share). A static climate would mean an inert atmosphere causing less changes to the cask and ultimately, less flavour and colour imparted into the liquid.
So, the more chaotic your microclimate, the faster and more intense your maturation (which is why hot, humid Kentucky causes rapid maturation for a lot of Bourbon distilleries, or why a similar climate in India affects their spirit so quickly too). And the recent heatwaves and storms will have been creating volatile conditions for English whisky casks across the land, helping speed up maturation and the process of extracting flavours and colours from the wood.
But why are we telling you this? Well, it seemed about time that we updated you on the progress of our own casks as they continue to mature and benefit from these chaotic climatic conditions. Below you’ll find 3 videos updating the status of our Cooper King, Retribution and Spirit of Birmingham casks – some of which are now legally whisky (even though they’re not being bottled just yet). So, sit back, relax, grab a dram and find out how our casks are faring on their maturation journey.
And remember, you can own a share of all 3 of these casks – just head to our cask shares page (don’t forget to sign-in if you’re a member for discount share links) and add them to your virtual cellar today!
Cheers,
Richard
Cooper King Cask #101 – MB Roland “Dark Fired” Bourbon Cask
Spirit of Birmingham – Beer-seasoned English Oak cask
Retribution – English Peat project in ex Buffalo Trace cask
And if you’re still watching, here’s a review of one of the samples form our new whisky tasting packs – No.5 series from Masthouse (Copper Rivet Distillery). Watch here.
