Whisky Processes - Marrying in Wood

In the world of whisky, the terms for production processes can be quite peculiar, as I've explored in previous blogs. One such term is that of ‘marrying’ whisky.

It’s a term for a process that takes place in the blending stage after whiskies have been matured and introduced to each other in the blending vat – a kind of whisky honeymoon, if you will. But why is it important and where does the ‘wood’ aspect come in?

This blog delves into the marrying of whiskies, specifically the intriguing practice of ‘marrying in wood’.

But first…

Why blend whisky?

Blending creates consistency and balance, but a main reason, especially in blending malt whiskies, is that it creates a fusion of flavours that isn’t necessarily achieved by an individual single malt distillery, as all whiskies have a character and flavour profile of their own.

Think of it in terms of baking a cake, with each single malt whisky throwing in its own flavour ingredient to the mix.

How do you blend whisky?

Cask selection

The first stage is for the master blender to select the casks required. Independent bottlers choose from various casks of whisky with different ages, from different regions and in different types of casks, each contributing unique flavours and characteristics.

Into the vat

The selected whiskies are first emptied into a trough and then pumped into a large blending vessel, usually made of stainless steel, known as a marrying tun or a blending vat.

Getting married

After the whiskies are combined in the vat, they undergo a resting or ‘marrying’ period which allows them to harmonise and meld together, developing rich flavours and aromas.

Sampling and adjusting

Throughout the marrying period, master blenders regularly sample the whisky to ensure it is developing the desired characteristics.

This is usually the end of the marrying process before bottling.

However, some producers go a step further...

Marrying in wood

This process really allows the flavours and aromas more time to interact and meld together.

After the whiskies are ‘married’ in a vat they are then returned to their original casks to mature for longer – normally a month or two. It’s a process that’s known as ‘marrying in wood’.

Why ‘marry’ in wood?

Marrying in wood, creates a rounder, smoother blend than if whisky just married in a metal vat. It helps the flavours to meld together and mixes them properly for a fuller, richer, smoother flavour, maximising on the aroma and flavour profile.

The wood allows for micro-oxygenation, where small amounts of oxygen interact with the whisky, facilitating chemical reactions that help bond the flavours together. Additionally, the whisky can extract further flavour compounds from the wood.

This technique is used for blended malt whiskies including A Quarter Passed limited edition blended malt whisky from Wemyss Malts, and I’ve kindly been sent some to try.

Wemyss Malts - A Quarter Passed

Referring to the 25 years that the youngest whisky in this blend has matured for, the cleverly-named A Quarter Passed is presented in a sleek-looking bottle with a beautiful black and gold label.

It was crafted by Isabella Wemyss, Head of Production at Wemyss Malts, from single malt whiskies that have been matured in ex-bourbon barrels. Inspired by the art of patience and the passage of time in whisky making, this rare and exclusive limited edition blended malt Scotch whisky brims with a heady, rich character.

This is largely down to the ‘marrying in wood’ process. A Quarter Passed has been married in wood for six years, an extraordinary length of time, which I was about to find out would be clearly evident in its character.

On the nose, I found really pleasant notes of warm vanilla, sweet almond, a detectable zest of lemon and creamy notes of milk chocolate.

On the palate, a distinctly robust foundation of soft leather set against sweet citrus notes and rounded out by rich caramel, toffee and a hint of crème brûlée, before a medium length zingy finish of grated ginger and coconut.

I also noted a rich, creamy mouthfeel, which I loved.

A Quarter Passed is limited to a release of just 1,500 bottles and bottled at a generous cask strength of 53.6% ABV.

Paid Partnership in collaboration with Wemyss Malts. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.