If you have the ability mix your own batch of bourbon, rum, scotch or whiskey and age it to your personal preference, why wouldn’t you? It’s amazing what kind of spirits you can create with just a grain alcohol or neutral flavored vodka, some Swish Barrel Essences and an oak barrel. We all have personal favorites, and the essences available allow you to morph your alcohol to anything from an Irish Whiskey to Kentucky Bourbon, Orange Brandy, Honey Scotch Whiskey to a Coconut Rum.
Bootleg Kits are the perfect starter kits and a great investment that will last you for years. Bootleg kits are available with 1 liter - 5 liter barrels and includes:
American White Oak Barrel w/stand, bung and spigot (charred)
Essence (varies with recipe you choose)
Paper Funnel
Barrel Cleaning Kit
Instructions
When you receive your Bootleg kit, the first thing you’ll need to do is cure your barrel. (see directions here). If using a 1 liter barrel, empty most of a 750ml bottle alcohol into the barrel. You can use grain alcohol, a neutral vodka or swish alcohol (40% alc./vol.). You'll need 1 bottle of essence per liter of alcohol, so one bottle for a 1 liter barrel, 5 bottles for a 5 liter barrel, etc. After you add the appropriate amount of essence, fill your barrel with the rest of the alcohol. Shake the barrel well to mix the ingredients thoroughly and rest on the stand. It's best when aged for 2 or more weeks, but to each their own. When it reaches the maturity you want, bottle it up, enjoy as you please, and get started on your next batch!