CBP CBP Aging & Maturation

Question 1

What type of barrel must be used for bourbon maturation according to US federal regulations?

Accepted Answer

New charred oak containers

Answer

US federal law mandates that bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak containers.

Question 2

What is the primary chemical reaction that gives bourbon its amber color during aging?

Accepted Answer

Extraction of lignin-derived compounds and tannins from the charred wood

Answer

Bourbon's amber color comes mainly from lignin-derived compounds and tannins extracted from the charred oak staves.

Question 3

What term describes the portion of bourbon lost to evaporation through the barrel during aging?

Accepted Answer

The angel's share

Answer

The 'angel's share' is the industry term for the volume of spirit that evaporates through the barrel staves each year.

Question 4

Which char level is most commonly used in bourbon barrel production?

Accepted Answer

Char #3

Answer

Char #3 is the most widely used level in the industry, providing a balance of filtration and flavor extraction.

Question 5

How does warehouse location (rick position) influence bourbon maturation?

Accepted Answer

Upper floors experience greater temperature swings, accelerating extraction and intensifying flavor

Answer

Barrels on upper warehouse floors experience more extreme temperature cycling, which drives greater spirit-wood interaction and produces more intensely flavored bourbon.

(CBP) Certified Bourbon Professional Practice Test

(CBP) Certified Bourbon Professional Practice Test

CBP CBP Aging & Maturation