What Are whisky Casks? Read Complete Guide Step by Step - Spirit Filled
In this article, we're going to look at five simple questions that someone new to the world of whisky casks may ask.
A whisky cask is a wooden vessel used to age whisky. It is barrel-shaped, made of curved planks of wood called staves, as well as flat ends, again made from planks. Casks are made by skilled experts called 'coopers'. It can take years to qualify and to graduate from apprentice to full cooper. Once distilled, the spirit is poured into the whisky cask and left for a period of time. The unique shape of whisky casks helps warehouse keepers roll the heavy liquid-filled casks from one location to another. For example, from the distillery to the warehouse. Or, from the warehouse to the bottling hall.
Why are whisky casks important?
Whisky casks are important for two reasons: classification and flavour. For a whisky to be called 'scotch' it must age in an oak cask for at least three years. Any less than three years and, according to the Scotch Whisky Association, it's not a whisky. Even more importantly, casks are key to developing a whisky's final flavour. During the time spent in the cask, the whisky interacts with the wood. Additive and subtractive chemical reactions change the whisky's flavour, as well as its colour. This process, over time, results in the flavour profile we associate with whisky.
what types of wood can be used to make a whisky cask?
The short answer is 'it depends'. If we ask what type of wood can be used to make a cask for aging scotch, the answer is simple: oak. Scotch whisky must be aged in oak. The answer is also simple if we ask what type of wood can be used to make American whiskey. It's also oak, this time specifically virgin oak. With much of the world's whisky either being made in Scotland or the US, or being modelled on Scotch, most whisky casks are made from oak. However, Irish and European distilleries have started experimenting with other kinds of wood. Particularly when it comes to finishing whisky. From chestnut to cherry, there is an unusual wood matured / finished whiskies out there.
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Where do whisky casks come from?
Because whiskey casks in America need to be virgin oak, they have to be 'brand new'. But, for the rest of the world, it's more common to reuse a cask that has previously held something else. The two most common sources of casks for scotch whisky are America and Spain. Once the American distilleries have used their virgin oak casks, they're shipped over to Scotland where they can be used to age scotch. Sherry casks from Spain are often reused for scotch, and add an extra layer of flavour. While America and Spain are the most common source of whisky casks, there are lots of other sources. You can read more about where whisky casks come from here.
Can I buy a cask of whisky?
Yes, you can! Owning a cask of whisky can be enjoyable, interesting, and rewarding. As the whisky ages in a cask, it becomes more desirable. So, the value of your cask can grow over time. Here at Spiritfilled, we're experts in buying, storing, bottling, and selling whisky casks. We can help you every step of the way. Contact us today to find out more. Or, download our Guide To Investing In Whisky Casks here to read further.
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