Barrel News
One thing we kept hearing during Barrel Club was how much people enjoyed learning about the spirits themselves — the weird little details, the experiments, the aging process, and all the stuff happening behind the scenes at the distillery.
So, we asked our distillers what they’ve been most excited about lately, and the answer was easy: barrel finishing projects.
Product Highlight: North Fork Blue Label
Cognac Barrel Finished Rye Whiskey
Part of our North Fork Blue Label Single Barrel Series, this limited release rye whiskey was finished in a French oak cognac foeder, adding layered notes of raisin, honey, jasmine, and soft oak spice to the whiskey’s naturally bold rye character.
Laphroaig Barrels
The result is rich but balanced — bringing together classic rye spice with the rounded elegance that comes from cognac barrel finishing.
Did You Know?
Barrel finishing is the process of transferring mature whiskey into a second barrel that previously held another spirit or wine. During that additional aging period, the whiskey picks up subtle flavors and aromas from the cask — adding entirely new layers of character while still preserving the base whiskey underneath.
Different finishing barrels can dramatically influence the final profile, bringing everything from fruit and sweetness to smoke, spice, or wine-like richness.
We’ve recently filled Chardonnay barrels, sherry casks, and even a Laphroaig Scotch barrel with whiskey for future North Fork Blue Label releases.
Stay tuned — we’ve got some fun things aging!