Sources of variation in bourbon whiskey barrels: a review

Oak barrels serve two purposes in the production of distilled spirits: storage containers and reaction vessels. It is latter function which bestows barrel aged spirits with their unique highly sought after flavour profiles. However, achieving consistent profiles between notoriously difficult as no are comprised same source oak. Source variation due to a range factors, beginning genetic topographical background oak tree from staves originate, spatial region stave was taken continuing through each step process. In this review, we detail highlight how affects reactants present staves. The effect pyrolysis on biomass explored knowledge relates that undergo practices toasting charring discussed. We also significance availability during maturation goal writing review identify areas needed research, stimulate research encourage investigation into possibility creating more properties. © 2021 Authors. Journal Institute Brewing published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd behalf Distilling.