What is Single Barrel Bourbon?
Bourbon – with its smooth, caramel-infused allure – has captivated spirit enthusiasts for generations. Yet, amidst the shelves lined with whiskey bottles, one term stands out as a mark of distinction: Single Barrel Bourbon. What is Single Barrel Bourbon? And what sets it apart? Let us explain…
What is Bourbon?
First, let’s clarify what bourbon is and the legal qualifications that must be considered…
- Bourbon must be made in the United States
- A bourbon mash bill must be at least 51% corn
- Bourbon grains must be ground, mashed, cooked, fermented, distilled, and then aged in new, charred oak barrels
- Bourbon is considered “straight” when it has been aged for at least two years
- Bourbon must be distilled to no more than 80% ABV or 160 Proof
- Bourbon must enter the barrel for aging at no more than 62.5% ABV or 120 Proof
- Bourbon must be at 40% ABV or 80 Proof (or more) when bottled
What is Single Barrel Bourbon?
Coppercraft’s Single Barrel Bourbon – like most single-barrel bourbons – is seen as a premium class of whiskey. It goes through the same steps as standard bourbon but comes from one individual aging barrel, rather than a blended mix of bourbons from different barrels. Coppercraft Single Barrel Bourbon undergoes a maturation process lasting a minimum of 11 years within standard, 53-gallon, white oak barrels. At the end of the process the bourbon is bottled in Holland, Michigan, at our Distillery. Both location of the barrel and length of aging contribute to the different flavor profiles of each barrel. All of our single barrel bourbons have their own personality and unique flavor profile. Many have brighter citrus notes that harmonize with the rich flavors of dark chocolate, molasses, and vanilla, resulting in a full-bodied taste with a warm, toasty finish.
Interested in learning more about our single barrel process? Come to our Distillery to get a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting. Find Coppercraft’s Single Barrel Bourbon and other spirits online and at our tasting rooms or a retailer near you. Join our mailing list to stay up to date with the latest from Coppercraft Distillery. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date.