Single barrel alcohol refers to spirits that are bottled from an individual aging barrel, rather than being blended from multiple barrels. This approach to bottling highlights the unique character and flavor nuances of each specific barrel. Since every barrel can have slight variations based on its placement in the aging warehouse, the wood's characteristics, and other factors, spirits from individual barrels can showcase distinct taste profiles.
Commonly associated with premium offerings, single barrel products are especially popular among whiskey connoisseurs, though the concept can be applied to other spirits such as rum or tequila. Collectors and enthusiasts often seek out these bottles not only for their unique flavors but also because they tend to be more limited in quantity than blended spirits. Each bottle from a single barrel batch will typically be labeled with the specific barrel number and, in some cases, the date of bottling, making them a special addition to any aficionado's collection.