The beauty and complexity of a fine whiskey lie in the maturation process. The oak barrels in which whiskey ages for years and years have a massive impact on the final flavor of the spirit. And much like wine, picking the right barrel in which to let the clear spirit mature into whiskey is a crucial consideration.

In this online lesson, bartender Dustin Haarstad explains whiskey’s aging process and why oak makes all the difference.

What you'll learn in the How barrel aging affects whiskey lesson

• The different types of barrels used for aging whiskey
• The impact that different barrels have on flavor
• Why oak is used for whiskey maturation

Who the Whiskey basics course is for

Servers and bartenders, delve into the wonderful world of whiskey and up your dram game with help from the experts!