Cask Finishing: The Secret to Elevating Your Gin Game

When we think of cask finishing, we often associate it with whiskey. However, this technique can be applied to other spirits as well, including gin. Leaving a spirit in a wooden barrel for a period of months can add woody, spicing flavors that can elevate the drinking experience. This is exactly what Copperworks Distilling Co. has done with their new release of cask finished gin.

Copperworks Spanish Brandy Cask Finished Gin

The Copperworks Spanish Brandy Cask Finished Gin has been aged in brandy and whiskey casks, giving it a rich copper color that’s reminiscent of whiskey. But don’t be fooled - this gin still packs the flavors of juniper and pine that you’d expect, along with woody notes and hints of lime and cinnamon.

The Story Behind the Gin

According to Copperworks Distilling Co. Co-Owner and President Jason Parker, this special cask finished gin has been a long time in the making. In 2019, Copperworks acquired brandy casks from Cadiz, Spain, and filled one with gin. After over two years, the flavors from the cask were vibrant but needed more time to integrate. The spirit was then added to a cask previously used for Copperworks American Single Malt whiskey and was allowed to rest for an additional two years to achieve the perfect balance.

“This special cask finished gin has been a long time in the making,” said Jason Parker. “In 2019, Copperworks acquired brandy casks from Cadiz, Spain, and we filled one with gin. After over two years, the flavors from the cask were vibrant but needed more time to integrate. The spirit was then added to a cask previously used for Copperworks American Single Malt whiskey and was allowed to rest for an additional two years to achieve the perfect balance.”

A Perfect Pairing

In addition to the gin, Copperworks is also releasing a single malt whiskey, called Single Cask No. 472. According to Copperworks Distilling Co. Vice President and Co-Owner, Jeff Kanof, “Copperworks’ single cask whiskey releases have been flying off the shelves! Fortunately, we keep discovering exceptional casks at the distillery that meet our rigorous standards, and this is our latest release.”

“Unlike the re-filled cask used in the previous release, this one has been fully matured in charred new American oak for 3 years and 8 months, resulting in a rich and robust flavor profile,” said Jeff Kanof.

Both the gin and whiskey are produced in small batches, so if you’re interested in picking up either one, head to the Copperworks website.

Copperworks Distilling Co.

The Art of Cask Finishing

Cask finishing is an art that requires patience, skill, and attention to detail. It’s a technique that can elevate a spirit from good to great, and Copperworks Distilling Co. has mastered it. Whether you’re a gin or whiskey enthusiast, this new release is definitely worth trying.

Gin and Whiskey

So the next time you’re sipping on a gin or whiskey, remember the art of cask finishing that went into creating that perfect blend of flavors. And who knows, you might just discover a new favorite spirit.