After resting on new charred American oak for 8 years, new make whiskey—also known as moonshine—is transformed into a warm and rich premium spirit. As it ages, the charred oak surface absorbs harsh compounds, and the whiskey takes on sweetness and body from the wood’s own sugars. Wood lignins start to breakdown and impart flavors of vanilla and clove, while wood tannins darken the spirit, giving it a rich, warm hue. Esterification of the ethanol adds subtle floral top notes that complement the nutty rye spice present in the original high-rye mash. While it ages, the most volatile compounds in the new make whiskey slowly evaporate through the porous wood in the angel’s share, leaving behind premium bourbon. 

Bottled at 49.9% alcohol by volume, this 8-year-old high-rye straight bourbon is remarkably smooth and full of all the flavor and character you would expect from a premium mature bourbon.