Within this hub we explain everything you need to know about whisky casks, including the dos and don'ts and how you can enjoy your cask whiskies.
This article explores the different types of whisky casks and their distinct influences. We also explore the modern technique of cask finishing which, when nailed, creates refined flavour profiles and the decisions behind diluting whisky after it has finished maturing.
You can choose from three cask types, each offering a unique maturation character:
200L First Fill Bourbon Cask – classic notes of vanilla, honey, and tropical fruit.
225L Ex-Red Wine STR Cask – rich and intense, with toffee, chocolate, and red fruits.
250L 2nd Fill Sherry Cask – deep, fruity, and spiced with chocolate notes.
Each purchase includes up to 10 years of storage in our bonded warehouse, plus an annual sample so you can follow your whisky’s journey.
For full details, please see our Cask SalesIf you have questions, contact us at caskbuying@cotswoldsdistillery.com
Single malt whisky is whisky made from only malted barley at a single distillery. Blending can only occur between barrels from the same distillery and no other grains can be used in the mash bill. ‘Malt’ refers to a 100% malted barley mash bill. Meanwhile, ‘single’ refers to the number of distilleries involved.
Double malt whisky combines 100% malt whisky from two distilleries. They’re usually the result of a collaboration between creators and result in an artistic blend that harmonises flavour profiles. While single malt whiskies are revered in the whisky world, you’d be missing out on a world of flavour by dismissing a malt whisky blend.
The alcohol intensity is associated with the %ABV, not the style. However, there are things to consider for a smoother drink. Generally, higher quality is associated with smoothness. However, longer maturation periods also soften some of the more punchy characteristics. Each producer offers something different, so find the one that produces rich and smooth single malt. You may prefer to add water to your single malt to reduce the intensity of the ethanol. Most single malt whisky is diluted before bottling.
The Scotch Whisky Association only permits whisky to be aged in traditional casks - often, Sherry, red wine or Bourbon. However, English whisky and the rest of the new world can use various seasonings such as dessert wine, cognac or even maple syrup. Once the barrels are filled, they age for at least three years, taking on flavour from the barrel and its previous contents.
