The Barrel Travels From Whiskey To Syrup And Back Again
- Matthew Sommerfield
- Apr 22
- 2 min read
From Episode 056: "Widow Jane Decadence; Extravagant Luxuries"
The art of whiskey finishing has reached new heights with innovations like Widow Jane's Decadence bourbon. This fascinating expression takes an already exceptional bourbon and elevates it through a unique finishing process in barrels previously used for maple syrup. What makes this process particularly intriguing is the circular journey these barrels undertake - from whiskey to maple syrup and back to whiskey again.
Widow Jane Decadence begins its journey in new charred oak barrels, as required by bourbon regulations. After this initial aging, the whiskey is then finished in barrels that previously held Crown Maple's artisanal maple syrup. The result is a 91-proof bourbon with remarkable complexity - rich, creamy, and subtly sweet with maple undertones that don't overwhelm the whiskey's inherent character.
What's even more fascinating is the reciprocal relationship between Widow Jane and Crown Maple. Once Crown Maple extracts their syrup from barrels, they send those barrels to Widow Jane, who then finishes their bourbon in them. And in a beautiful full-circle moment, Crown then takes barrels that held Widow Jane bourbon to create their bourbon barrel-aged maple syrup. This exchange creates a perpetual cycle of flavor development that benefits both products.
The tasting notes for Widow Jane Decadence reveal a complex profile with noticeable but not overwhelming maple influence. The bourbon maintains a subtle syrupy character that emerges gradually, particularly on the finish. The mouthfeel is reminiscent of a thin syrup, creating a luxurious drinking experience that truly lives up to the "decadent" moniker on the label. At 91 proof (45.5% ABV), it's accessible even to those who might find higher-proof whiskeys challenging.
This unique bourbon represents a broader trend in American whiskey - the growing popularity of finished bourbons. While purists might prefer their bourbon straight from traditional charred oak, there's undeniable appeal in these innovative expressions that introduce additional flavor dimensions through secondary barrel finishing. Maple syrup barrels, wine casks, rum barrels, and other finishing vessels are opening new frontiers in bourbon flavor profiles.
Widow Jane Decadence retails for approximately $80-90, positioning it as a premium offering. While this price point requires some consideration before purchase, those who appreciate distinctive flavor profiles and innovative production methods will likely find it a worthwhile investment. The limited availability adds to its appeal among whiskey enthusiasts looking for something beyond standard offerings.
The concept of "decadence" extends beyond this particular bourbon into conversations about what makes anything truly decadent - whether it's food indulgences like chocolate cake and macadamia nut turtle pie, activities like spa treatments, or even clothing choices that balance luxury with comfort. True decadence seems to combine luxury, comfort, and a certain timeless quality that elevates an experience above the ordinary.
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