28/03/2023 Wood finishing is the process whereby a distiller transfers their whiskey from one type of cask to another.
In a nutshell, it's the process whereby a distiller transfers their whiskey from one type of cask to another. Also known as secondary maturation, this adds complexity to the whiskey, changing its colour and flavour profile, depending on the type of cask used.
“Wood finishing or secondary maturation may only be a relatively ‘new’ way of making whiskey, having emerged over the past two decades. But, it’s an exciting extra step in the process which yields some fantastic results on the profile of the whiskey, giving it a lot of its character and uniqueness, and it’s those touches we’re proud to add to every bottle of Athrú” says Lough Gill Distillery.
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Distillers often try to get to these common whiskey finishes: Dry oak, vanilla and salt are all quite common finishes, but the possibilities are endless. Also, take note of the length of time you can taste these flavours. If they're fleeting, that's called a short finish.
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