The hues of this distilled spirit vary from pale straw yellow to deep amber and wealthy mahogany. This variation derives from a number of components, together with the kind of grain used (barley, rye, corn, wheat), the size of ageing, the kind of cask employed (e.g., ex-bourbon, sherry), and whether or not added coloring like caramel is used. A newly distilled spirit is often clear and colorless. Colour develops throughout maturation in picket barrels.
Evaluating the colour supplies helpful clues in regards to the spirit’s potential traits. A lighter hue could counsel a youthful age or lighter taste profile, whereas darker tones typically point out an extended maturation interval and doubtlessly richer, extra complicated flavors derived from the wooden. Traditionally, colour has served as a fast visible indicator of high quality and age, although it is vital to notice that colour alone will not be a definitive measure of style or high quality. Subtle customers and professionals make the most of colour alongside aroma and style for a complete evaluation.