American Oak vs. European Oak: Which One Creates Better Whiskey?

Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast (well, who isn’t?) or someone trying to understand the effect a barrel’s material has, you’re at the right place. Choosing a whiskey barrel is very important. This is because the barrel you pick highly influences the whiskey’s smell, taste, and style. Usually, the difference and selection are between two kinds – American Oak barrels and European Oak barrels.

Both these types have special characteristics and are very popular choices for making whiskey. Whiskey makers all over the world know how important top-quality whiskey is. So, they focus a lot on what kind of wood they use for their barrels.

In this article, we will delve into the differences between each of these barrels. We will also understand why certain oaks impart a specific flavor. After all, to whiskey distilleries, the type of oak you use can make or break your whiskey.

A Short Rundown Before All the Technicalities

Scotch whiskey can only be matured in oak, and it should be matured for at least three years before being called a whiskey. Now, what about bourbon? Well, for bourbon, the rules are far stricter – the whiskey must solely be aged inAmerican oak barrels.

Whiskies from countries like Canada and Ireland are brewed in barrels made from other wood too. For example, the famous Midleton Distillery in County Cork has used chestnut casks.

Before we start talking about a barrel’s impact on whiskey, let us understand the basic American oak and European oak differences that every whiskey maker or whiskey enthusiast must know. American oak, also known as Quercus alba, is known for the sweet, vanilla, and coconut notes it imparts. Whereas, European oak, or the Quercus robur or Quercus petraea, imparts spicier, nuttier, and more tannic characteristics.

The Molecular Theory of Oak and Whiskey

When talking about oak and whiskey, there are three main molecules that we should focus on – eugenol, vanillin, and something known as the ‘whiskey lactone.’ American Oak has higher levels of vanillin and ‘whiskey lactone.’

Since we’re diving into the technicalities, let me tell you – ‘whiskey lactone’ is beta-methyl-gamma-octalactone. Now, the naming makes sense, doesn’t it? Well, this molecule is responsible for the coconut flavor. And the vanillin molecules are responsible for the vanilla notes in the whiskey.

Eugenol is responsible for the drier, spicy notes that are like clove. These are mainly found in European oak. Often, people find this flavor profile to be a bit more tannic and astringent. Hence, it is rarely found in hotter countries. But this doesn’t mean that these notes aren’t delicious with the right whiskey in the right climate.

Grain of Wood affecting the Whiskey

Both varieties of oak grow differently, and you can only understand this when you look at the grain of the wood. The grain is the size of the annual growth rings in the wood. So, fast-growing wood will have coarse grain. On the other hand, slow-growing wood will have fine grain.

European oak generally has a coarser grain, whereas American oak has a finer and tighter grain. Why does this matter? Well, the tighter the grain is, the more the reduced concentration of aroma is reduced. This is because tighter grains allow less spirit to evaporate.

Toasting and Charring – The Additional Factors

Other than the differences in the wood, the toasting and charring of oak barrels can influence your whiskey’s flavor and aroma. Toasting is the method of applying heat to a barrel’s insides to break down the wood’s complex compounds.

Charring makes a layer of burnt carbon that helps filter out impurities and gives a smoky, caramelized taste to the whiskey. You can choose different levels of charring and toasting to get just the right mix of flavors and complexity you prefer in your whiskey.

Finding the Right Oak Barrel for Your Whiskey

As you see from the basic ideas mentioned, choosing the right barrel is very important for whiskey makers. Whiskey is a special, top-notch drink. So, everyone who makes it wants to ensure the best quality. Consider what flavors and aromas you want in your finished whiskey. Then, look for oak barrels for sale.

Remember American Oak barrels add sweetness and depth. Whereas, the European Oak adds spice and complexity. The type of wood chosen and the process allow distilleries to create whiskeys with a diverse range of profiles. Each wood type brings its unique contributions to the table.

As whiskey enthusiasts, the diversity and creativity that oak aging affords are a cause for celebration. At Rocky Mountain Barrel Company, we understand the distinct influence that American Oak and European Oak can have on whiskey. Hence, we provide a variety of used oak barrels that will help you achieve the exact profile you’re seeking. Our barrels will ensure that each whiskey you brew is enhanced by the unique characteristics of the oak and helps in building a superior final product.

Reach out to us today to find used barrels for sale and explore how we can help you elevate your whiskey and the experience it offers.