This 12-year-old bourbon underwent a secondary maturation in hand-selected French oak casks with distinct toast levels designed to enhance its aromatic depth and enrich its palate. The influence of the French oak imparts a rich tapestry of flavors—warm nutmeg and aromatic allspice unfold on the palate, followed by layers of toasted hazelnut and creamy vanilla, and a sophisticated touch of worn leather, adding a refined, earthy character. ​ French oak provides distinctive flavor notes: prominent nutty (caramelized butter), woody (rounded and complex), and aromatic vanilla flavors through a unique blend of lactones and vanillin compounds. Tannins from French oak contribute a balanced structure providing necessary complexity, mouthfeel, and a balanced finishing process over longer periods of time. French oak offers a more refined subtle contribution compared to heavily toasted American Oak barrels used for initial maturation or heavy charring, adding layers of flavor without overpowering the bourbon itself.