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Does anyone know if there are any favorite or "preferred" ex-bourbon barrels used for finishing by distilleries in Scotland???
Ex-bourbon barrels are rarely used for a 'finish' - that more applies for Oloroso or PX sherry casks. Are you referring to the actual source of the barrels, such as Buffalo Trace?
Most ex-bourbon casks are flatpacked and shipped to Scotland where they are reassembled in places like the Speyside Cooperage. Barrel volume normally changes from about 180-200 l (bourbon) to 250 l hogsheads.
Here you get an impression from the Speyside Cooperage:
Slàinte!
“That's what I do. I drink, and I know things.” (Tyrion Lannister)
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@MaltNut
Bourbon barres used for finishing are so rare. More common is the virgin oak finishing,
@MaltNut
I don't think Scottish distilleries make much fuss about the source of their bourbon barrels. It usually depends on the contractual relationships they have in place. Most are happy just to have a steady supply of fresh bourbon barrels, regardless of source. Some Kentucky distilleries do air dry their barrel staves for longer periods than others, but I can't believe that makes much difference for Scotch maturation after the cask has been used to mature bourbon.
You will usually only see finishing in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels as an attempt to mask immature spirit or compensate for primary maturation in tired casks.