Most Received Questions About Our Barrel Finished Gin

1. What is barrel-finished gin?

   • Barrel-finished gin is a clear base gin that has been aged in wooden barrels, typically American oak, which adds complexity and new flavors to the spirit that some hint leans toward a whiskey.

2. How does barrel finishing affect the flavor of gin?

   • The aging or “finishing” process in barrels can forge notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice from the wood, complementing the botanical flavors of the gin.

3. How long is gin typically aged in barrels?

   • The aging period for barrel-finished gin can vary, but it is usually much shorter than whiskey aging, often ranging from 3 months to a year.

4. What types of barrels are used for aging gin?

   • Gin can be aged in various types of barrels, including new oak, ex-bourbon, ex-wine, and other previously used barrels, each imparting different flavors. We use American Oak at Manchester Distillery but are looking to get creative in the future with other types of barrels and finishing processes

5. Does barrel-finished gin lose its botanical character?

   • While the wood flavors add complexity, the botanical character of the gin typically remains prominent, providing a balanced blend of flavors.

6. Can I use barrel-finished gin in cocktails?

   • Yes, barrel-finished gin can add depth and complexity to classic gin cocktails. Some of our Manchester Distillery tasting room favorites are Negronis, Martinis, or Old Fashioneds.

7. Is barrel-finished gin a new trend?

   • Barrel aging gin is a relatively recent trend in the craft distilling world, inspired by the success of barrel-aged spirits like whiskey. Some hint its popularity spiked in various regions of France.

8. How should barrel-finished gin be served?

   • Barrel-finished gin can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. Tasting it neat first can help you appreciate the unique flavors imparted by the barrel aging.

9. What brands produce barrel-finished gin?

   • Many craft distilleries produce barrel-finished gin, including well-known brands and smaller artisanal producers. Examples include Citadelle Réserve, Bluecoat Barrel Finished, and Few Spirits Barrel-Aged Gin.

10. How does the price of barrel-finished gin compare to regular gin?

    • Barrel-finished gin is often priced higher than regular gin due to the additional aging process and the complexities it introduces to the spirit.

Is Barrel Finished Gin Similar To Whiskey?

Similarities

• Wood Interaction aka Estrification Both can be aged in wooden barrels, usually oak, which the signature flavor notes.

• Environmental Factors: Have a huge effect, especially in dramatic climates like New England. Generally, the changing storage conditions (temperature, humidity) affect aging and flavors the spirit aquires over time.

• Oxidation: Both undergo oxidation, enhancing flavor complexity and smoothness.

Differences

1. Base Ingredients:

   • Gin: Neutral grain spirit infused with botanicals, like, juniper, coriander seed, angelica root, citrus peels, almonds and other earthly seeds.

   • Whiskey: Fermented grain mash that is a mixture of barley, corn, rye, and wheat.

2. Flavor Development:

   • Gin: A focus on botanical flavor changes; short aging process of around 3 months adds subtle wood notes.

   • Whiskey: Relies on a longer aging process (starting at 2 years) for flavor complexity, color, and smoothness. Scotch needs to age for at least three years.