Some say there’s no bigger influence on a whiskey’s flavor than the barrel it’s aged in. Today, hybrid barrels made from multiple types of wood are offering distillers some new choices when it comes to the kind of influence they’re looking for.

Different wood types, naturally, have different impacts on a spirit. American oak is known for its big, sweet, buttery influence, while French oak offers silkier tannins and more toasty and nutty flavors. Hungarian oak is roasty, while mizunara oak is spicy.

And the type of wood is just the beginning. Toast or char levels also have an…