Distiller Notes
Barrell Craft Spirits Gray Label Canadian Whiskey began with two selections of 24-year Canadian whiskey barrels: one set was fruit-forward and tropical, and one was woody, with a light floral aroma. A portion of the fruit-forward blend was transferred into Oloroso Sherry barrels and a portion of the floral and earthy blend was transferred into Armagnac casks. The remaining whiskey from the two groups was then combined to mingle. When the timing and flavor from the finishing casks peaked, the three components were carefully blended together.
The mature, spicy whiskey is front and center, reminiscent of wheat fields edged with wildflowers. There is a rare and noteworthy concentration of aroma, enriched with a candy sweetness and leafy earthiness from the finishing casks, that calls to mind a toasty Belgian waffle.
Often considered the lightest and friendliest of Whiskeys, Canadian Whiskey is most often corn-based, but a small portion of rye is often also added to the mash bill in order to enhance flavor. Because of the prevalence of this practice, Canadian Whisky is often referred to as Canadian Rye or Rye Whisky, though one shouldn’t confuse it with American Rye Whiskey, which must have a mash bill made from at least 51% rye grain. Canadian Whiskey must be entirely produced in Canada, including an aging period of three years in oak barrels.