Bespoken Spirits Special Batch Bourbon Mash Whiskey, California, USA

A lighter, “Japanese-style” version of a Bourbon mash Spirit.

Wood seems like a pretty important part of Whiskey making, right, but apparently, it doesn’t have to be. Or at least not in the way we’re used to, according to the co-founders of Silicon Valley-based Bespoken Spirits Stu Aaron and Martin Janousek who use technology to achieve perfection in Spirits. Their team of scientists developed a proprietary ACTivation technology, where "aroma, color, and taste" are extracted with "precision, control, and speed". This way, the Spirit is matured in days instead of years. Don’t worry, the process of instilling the barrel in the Spirit is completely natural and sustainable with no artificial colorings or additives. The profile of a Spirit is precisely tailored, which is great, but there are other benefits, too: "97% less wood consumption, 20% more Spirit yield (No angel’s share!), and most importantly, award-winning tastes."

Bespoken Spirits Special Batch Whiskey is a lighter Japanese-style version of their Original Batch that’s made with a Bourbon mash. You’ll notice the beautiful light gold color and smell floral and fruit aromas before you taste the juicy caramel, cocoa, and lemon zest on the palate, ending with a touch of cardamom and clove.