What is a requirement for aging American light whiskey?

Aging American light whiskey specifically requires that it is produced in accordance with regulations that allow it to be aged in used or uncharred new oak barrels. This distinguishes it from many other types of whiskey, such as bourbon, which has stringent requirements for aging in charred new oak barrels. The use of used or uncharred new oak allows for a different flavor profile and influences the characteristics of the whiskey, allowing for a lighter spirit that differentiates itself from other whiskey categories.

By permitting aging in used barrels or uncharred barrels, American light whiskey gains versatility in taste, enabling a lighter, less intense character, which is a signature of this style. The lack of a requirement for aging, as found with some spirits, does not apply here; thus, the whiskey cannot skip aging completely.

In conclusion, the specification that American light whiskey is aged in used or uncharred new oak barrels is what sets it apart and is fundamental to understanding the production and aging processes related to this type of whiskey.