Does Bourbon Get Filtered? The Truth You’ll Wish You Knew
Filtration: The Bourbon Step You Didn’t Know Mattered
Bourbon’s smooth—or not—but how does it get that way? Filtration’s the quiet tweak that changes your sip, and if you don’t get it, you’re in the dark. Here’s the undeniable scoop on bourbon filtration, straight from the basics, and why it’s your 2025 eye-opener.
What Is Bourbon Filtration?
Filtration cleans up bourbon—U.S. law doesn’t require it, but many makers filter after aging in new charred oak barrels. It removes haze, sediment, or char bits from the spirit before bottling. Some skip it—your bottle might say "unfiltered" to prove it.
How Filtration Happens
Once bourbon finishes aging in new charred oak barrels, producers can choose to filter it using screens, cloth, or charcoal to refine the spirit before bottling. In some cases, they chill the bourbon first, which helps solidify any cloudy particles, making them easier to catch during the process. The aim is to achieve a clear appearance, especially since the legal minimum of 80 proof often requires adding water to adjust the strength, and filtration ensures this blend integrates smoothly. Unlike some steps mandated by U.S. law, filtration remains optional—each maker decides whether to use it and how, tailoring the final product to their preference.
Filtered vs. Unfiltered Bourbon
When bourbon is filtered, it emerges with a clear appearance, free of sediment, resulting in a lighter texture on the palate. In contrast, unfiltered bourbon retains more natural oils and a fuller mouthfeel, sometimes showing a slight haze, especially at lower proofs below 100. Regardless of filtration, the mash must contain at least 51% corn to meet U.S. legal standards, forming the foundation of every bottle’s flavor profile. Whether filtered to polish the spirit or left unfiltered to keep it raw, the choice alters the taste experience, offering distinct styles from the same corn base.
Why Filtration’s a 2025 Must-Know
Filtration tweaks your bourbon—smooth or bold, it’s in the glass. By 2025, spotting filtered vs. unfiltered is your edge. Want to taste the difference? Check out NEAT: Whiskey Finder—it’ll help you track down bourbon and whiskey near you.
