What must be mixed with a single barrel whiskey during bottling?

When bottling single barrel whiskey, it is customary to mix in additional water to achieve the desired bottling strength. Whiskey often comes out of the barrel at a higher alcohol content than the standard bottling strength, which is typically around 40% to 50% ABV. By adding water, distillers can lower the alcohol concentration to the acceptable range while preserving the whiskey's flavor and character. This process is essential to ensure consistency and palatability for consumers.

The practice of adding water allows the distiller to control the final product, making it accessible to a broader range of consumers who might prefer a less potent product. It's important to highlight that this does not detract from the quality of the single barrel whiskey; rather, it's a standard practice in the industry to maintain the whiskey's integrity and ensure it meets legal requirements for sale.