How Alcohol Aging Impacts Flavor and Pricing in Spirits

When it comes to sourcing spirits, ensuring you have the right quantity, prices, and flavors can be a bit tricky without all the details. While numerous brands have ventured into crafting their own barrel-aged liquor, the aging process and its impact on flavor and pricing typically follow similar patterns.

If you're interested in exploring a unique whiskey investment or simply want to delve deeper into the world of barrel-aged spirits, you've found the perfect resource. Our team of alcohol experts at Brindiamo Group has put together a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this exciting realm.

Here are a few ways aging can affect spirit pricing:

1. How long spirits are aged
2. Where the spirit was aged
3. What type of barrel was used
4. What DSP or Master Distiller made the spirit
5. What are the costs and types of raw materials used in the spirit & more

Spirit Aging Process

The process of aging alcohol involves long-term storage. Some distilleries have their team of coopers to craft storage barrels, while others may outsource this step. The main goal of this maturation process is to eliminate any harsh flavors from the raw liquid.

During this process, the liquors absorb the unique flavor characteristics present in the wood of the barrel, such as smoky notes, hints of vanilla, and other nuances. Typically, alcohol aging barrels are made of oak, sometimes charred. While other types of wood can be used, the choice of wood plays a crucial role in determining the final flavor profile of the aged spirit.

It's important to note that not all types of wood are suitable for long-term liquid storage. For popular aged liquors like brandy and whiskey, a minimum of 3 years of aging is often required before bottling, depending on the specific style. The aging requirements for rums and tequilas can vary based on the type of spirit and the desired qualifications.

Contact Brindiamo Group today to learn more about the bulk sourcing process!

Barrel Aging Effects

Similar to vodka, alcohol starts off clear and relatively flavorless before it enters the barrel. As it matures in the barrel, it absorbs the flavors and colors from the wood, resulting in the rich, dark spirits we know and love like whiskey.

After the aging process, you'll notice that aged liquor is darker than unaged versions. Bourbon or whiskey, for example, may showcase amber or golden brown hues in as little as 6 months, while white rum or vodka typically remain clear as they aren't aged in barrels.

While there are exceptions, such as moonshine being unaged in a predominantly aged world, barrel aging tends to produce darker, golden spirits. Following this maturation process, you'll experience the unique flavor profile of a barrel-aged spirit, often characterized by...

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 matured spirits, whether you are looking for bulk solutions or a one-time purchase, prices can vary based on the aging process. Higher quality spirits are often aged for longer periods, reflecting the craftsmanship and time invested in their production. As a result, these premium spirits typically come with a higher price tag to account for the extended maturation period.

For example, a 50-year-old scotch will be more expensive than a 10-year-old one. Just like an artwork or vintage car, the longer a spirit matures in its barrel, the higher the cost. While aging is a significant factor in liquor pricing, the mashbill or recipe of the aged spirit also influences the price. Spirits that use higher concentrations of rye, for instance, tend to be pricier.

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!