The term Angel's Share refers to the portion of an alcoholic beverage, particularly whiskey, cognac, or wine, that is lost to evaporation during the aging process in barrels. This evaporation occurs naturally as the beverage matures in wooden casks.
Angel's Share is a poetic term for an inevitable and essential process that plays a key role in creating high-quality spirits. The term originates from the idea that the evaporated liquid rises to the heavens and is "taken" by angels.
Typically, around 2–5% per year, depending on climate, humidity, and storage conditions, are lost. The Angel's Share contributes to the concentration of flavors, as the remaining liquid becomes more intense. For producers, the loss due to evaporation is a significant cost factor, as less product remains, especially for spirits aged for a long time.
In Angel's Share – the game - you are a shrewd investor looking to make the most money in the rapidly growing whiskey industry. You will be purchasing barrels from renowned distilleries in hopes of turning a large profit. However, as time goes on a bit of each barrel evaporates - the Angel’s Share - which can leave you with a prestigious whiskey, or a low volume of a broken down spirit.
You have to manage your limited actions, aging barrels, and tight budget to make the most money chasing the perfect whiskey.
