Cask strength whiskies

Definition of “brut de fût 

The expression “brut de fût” means “unfinished”, in other words, all the processes that a whisky has not undergone. Generally speaking, most whiskies are diluted to a standard alcohol level by adding water before bottling, to ensure consistency from batch to batch. A brut de fût whisky, on the other hand, is bottled as it comes out of the cask, without any addition or subtraction.

The advantages

Cask-aged whiskies have a certain strength due to the fact that no water is added. They can reach 70% vol. This alcohol strength is not as strong in tasting as you might think. A brut de fût whisky will have a more pronounced taste on the palate. The eau-de-vie immersed in the oak barrel bonds with the grain of the wood, and the aromas contained in the oak are diffused.

Tasting advice

To fully appreciate your whisky, pour a small quantity (between 1.5 and 3 centilitres) into a tasting glass. For the best tasting experience, make sure your whisky is at room temperature. If this is not the case, opt for whisky stones, which lower the temperature of your drink from 20° to around 10° without diluting it with water.