I just took out some that I had in two and five litre barrels for about nine months and it did have a very dark color and strong oak taste. I diluted it with clear shine and bottle it with a few oak chips. I'm guessing that may help.
I have used cubes from Northern Brewer with very good luck. About 8 cubes per 1 quart jar for about eight weeks makes pretty good whiskey. I'm thinking about trying some homemade cubes from my own apple or peach trees. Anybody have any thoughts on that?