Category: Whisky of the Week Page 3 of 77

Whisky of the Week

Whisky of the Week review and tasting notes for whisky, bourbon and whiskey from all around the world. Single malts, blends, blended malts, rye and grain whiskey tasted and reviewed.

Ardbeg An Oa Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 04/01/2024

In Single Malt whisky

It was with great fanfare that Ardbeg launched an extension to their core range – Ardbeg An Oa Islay single malt Scotch whisky. The first permanent expression to join the Ardbeg core range since Corryvreckan in 2009.

The rest of the core range include Ardbeg 10 yo and Ardbeg Uigeadail whisky. Ardbeg and Glenmorangie is part of the LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy) company, and they are a great marketing company.

I was somewhat sceptical about this new release. I have been less impressed lately by the Ardbeg Day releases. Was this another premium-priced release that does not live up to the hype? In the run-up to the release of the An Oa, a rather corny video was released called ” Whisky Whispers”, about a new release coming.

Also Read: Lagavulin Distillers Edition 1994 whisky

The distillery named this release after the Mull of Oa in the south-west of Islay. The Mull offers the Kildaton some protection from the worst the Atlantic storms, and it forms the most southerly point of Islay. Maturation of Ardbeg An Oa whisky takes place in a combination of casks including PX, spicy charred virgin oak and ex-bourbon.

Then this is all married together in Dr. Bill Lumsden’s new French oak ‘gathering vat’. Ardbeg An Oa is non-chill filtered. However, the important question is, what does it taste like?

Ardbeg An Oa Islay Whisky Review

REGION: Islay

ABV: 46.6%

COLOUR: Light Gold

NOSE: Peat, creamy honey, salted liquorice with hints of cough syrup. In the middle sweet vanilla floats about mingling with bits of toasted nuts and pine needles. It’s a fascinating and glorious mix of aromas. It’s complicated, subtle and different all at once. Faint smoke lurks around.

PALATE: Ash, peat, soft honey, sweet vanilla and cinnamon sugar, hints of chocolate and toasted oak. Faint traces of lemon pepper. The An Oa has a big mouthfeel, and it’s smooth and velvety on the palate. Water softens the few rough edges and adds more sweetness. But I finished my first glass without water; it was so good. I had to pour a second glass just to test.

FINISH: Smoothly with a long and lingering finish that hug and comfort you like a favourite jersey. Filled with sweetness and bits of nut.

RATING: DIVINE

The Ardbeg An Oa whisky is not the salty, TCP and strong tar pole notes of an Ardbeg Uigeadail, but a softer, more classic version of it. To me, the Uigeadail is the sea hardened old fisherman with salt in his bones. The An Oa is his daughter that just turned 21.

Sea weathered from living next to the sea, but more feminine and softer and filled with hopes and dreams of things that do not include the ocean and fish. But she will always come back to the fisherman’s cottage, as deep down the sea is still calling.

It is seldom that we finish a bottle. Even bottles that are easily replaceable like the Ardbeg 10 yo take a while for us to finish. This bottle of Ardbeg An Oa whisky is DONE – within four months of buying the bottle. If that does not translate into DIVINE, I don’t know what does!

I asked the question on Instagram Stories – Is this worth the hype, and it seems like most people agree. The Ardbeg An Oa single malt whisky is undoubtedly worth it!

This whisky made it into my Whisky of the Year . See what happened when we blind tested all the Divine rated drams for 2018. I have also done a side by side comparison between the An Oa and the Ardbeg Uigeadail. See which one was my favourite.

During 2020 Ardbeg released a new addition to the core range, the Ardbeg Wee Beastie 5 year old whisky.

Also Read : Highland Park 1997 Vintage whisky

Royal Challenge Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 03/25/2024

In Blended whisky

As a whisky enthusiast living in Mauritius, I relish stumbling upon unique whisky finds, especially those hailing from India. So when I encountered Royal Challenge whisky at Winners in Cascavelle, I knew I had to grab it.

Initially, the brand was crafted by Shaw Wallace and introduced to the Indian market in the early 1980s. United Spirits Ltd (USL), a Diageo group company, acquired Shaw Wallace in July 2005.

Royal Challenge is a grain-flavoured blended whisky with some Scotch and Indian malts. Approximately 12% of the blend is derived from this blend of Scotch and Indian whiskies matured in charred American oak casks. The rest is a neutral spirit distilled from molasses.

However, it’s important to note that Royal Challenge whisky, akin to many Indian “whiskies” (Indian-made foreign liquor), ventures into the realm of ambiguity. In essence, it is a rum blended with some whisky. It is not in line with the Scottish whisky regulations. In the United States, it is called “spirit whisky”.

Despite its unconventional origins, Royal Challenge whisky boasts a formidable presence in the global spirits market, with over 4.5 million cases sold annually. While it enjoys widespread popularity in India, it has also made waves in the USA, Canada, and the UK, showcasing its universal appeal.

In Mauritius, acquiring a bottle won’t break the bank, with a reasonable price tag of Rs 1350. The retail price in Canada was around $29 and $23 in the USA. In the UK, it costs around 42 GBP and ₹ 974 in India.

The Royal Challenge whisky earned a Gold medal for ‘Best Indian Whisky – 2011’ at the International Whisky Competition. It does have added colour.

Also Read: Vat 69 Whisky

Royal Challenge Whisky Review

COUNTRY: India and Scotland

ABV: 42,8%

COLOUR: Antique gold

NOSE:Caramel and fruity sweetness with malt. A slight alcohol note, so let it stand for a minute or 2 for the alcohol to dissipate. Not the most complex nose, but bold nevertheless. My favourite part of the whisky.

PALATE: First taste brings caramel sweetness, malt, and black pepper. After I added a few drops of water, a bitter lemon note came forward and drowned out the malt and sweetness. Faint oak in the background.

FINISH: The finish is short. Without adding water the finish is sweeter. With the water, the finish becomes more bitter lemon and pepper.

RATING: GOOD

My personal tasting experience unveils a mixed verdict. I don’t hate it, but I don’t love it either. Possessing a mild sweetness and devoid of any harsh alcohol burn, it serves as a versatile addition to cocktail creations.

I won’t use this in whisky-forward cocktails like an old-fashioned, but I might add this to a whisky mule or a peach smash as it is quite sweet. Just don’t add water.

Have you enjoyed sampling Royal Challenge whisky in your neck of the woods? Share your experiences and impressions with this spirit.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Red Label whisky

Johnnie Walker Select 10 Year Rye Cask Finish Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 03/04/2024

In Blended whisky

In 2022, I tried the Johnnie Walker Black Label Sherry Finish whisky. I decided it was time to open another of the Johnnie Walker expressions. This week it is the Johnnie Walker Select Casks 10 year old Rye cask finish whisky.

The Johnnie Walker Select Casks 10 year old Rye Casks Finish (a big mouth full) is a blended Scotch whisky. It was crafted under the meticulous eye of Master Blender Jim Beveridge. The base is a Cardhu single malt, blended with other whiskies matured for at least ten years in first-fill American oak casks. The blended whisky was then finished in ex-rye whiskey casks.

Introduced in October 2015, the Johnnie Walker Rye Casks Finish marks the inception of a series of limited-edition wood-finished blends from Johnnie Walker.

The Rye Cask finish is the first in a series of limited edition wood-finished blends from Johnnie Walker. It was released in October 2015.

The only experimental release I can find from Johnnie Walker is the Sweet Peat, a limited edition experimental blended Scotch whisky. I can’t see mention of any other releases in the Select Cast range.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Platinum Label 18 year old Whisky

Johnnie Walker Select Casks 10 Year Rye Casks Finish Review

ABV: 46%

COLOUR: Dark Wheat

NOSE: Prepare your senses for a symphony of creamy wood, vanilla, and rye spices adorned with a hint of malt and honeyed sweetness. Let it stand for a bit for the alcohol to evaporate.

On second nosing, it reveals freshly baked coconut loaf intertwined with delicate notes of cinnamon and a subtle nuttiness. A complexity that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds.

PALATE: Immerse yourself in a palate of creamy vanilla, gentle rye spices, and oak nuances harmonized by a sugary sweetness. It needs a few drops of water to temper the alcohol heat. Yet, the essence of coconut, cinnamon, and vanilla persists, weaving a tapestry of flavours.

FINISH: A medium-length finish with lingering echoes of drying oak, rye spices, and a whisper of black pepper.

RATING: EXCELLENT

Elegant and refined, the Johnnie Walker Select Casks 10-Year-Old Rye Cask Finish embodies a symphony of soft rye spices, oak, vanilla, and grain sweetness. Each element seamlessly interlocks, creating a flawless mosaic of flavour.

Perfectly balanced with a delightful interplay between wood and vanilla, sweetness and spice. The coconut notes bring a unique dimension, making it perfect for drinking here on the tropical island. The Johnnie Walker Select Cask 10 year old Rye cask finish whisky is one of the nicest drams I have had in a while.

Rarely do we encounter such experimental cask finishes in blended Scotch whisky, and this one is an unequivocal triumph. Should you chance upon this remarkable creation, buy it without hesitation.

Also Read: Royal Challenge Whisky

Vat 69 Scotch Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 02/05/2024

In Blended whisky

In the expansive realm of whiskies, from limited editions to exclusive drams, I enjoy exploring budget-friendly options to find that affordable gem. Among the notable names that consistently top my Google search stats is Vat 69 Scotch whisky. So, let’s go and explore this well-known Scottish whisky.

Crafted by the Leith-born blender William Sanderson in 1882, Vat 69 is a blended Scotch whisky that has made its mark worldwide. In his quest for the perfect blend, Sanderson created 100 vats of uniquely blended whiskies.

Then, he asked a panel of friends and experts to taste each one of them. Slowly working their way through 100 casks must have been a daunting task. At the end of this tasting, Vat No. 69 that stood out as the winner.

The blend was well established by the time of Sanderson’s passing in 1908. It even accompanied Sir Ernest Shackleton on his 1914 Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition for medicinal and celebratory purposes.

At the start, Glen Garioch formed the heart of the blend. Today, the recipe incorporates a blend of 40 malts and grains. It does not have an age statement.

Affordability is a defining trait, with Vat 69 retailing for around Rs 1000 in Mauritius and approximately R 185 in South Africa. It is available in the UK for around £30. Here in Mauritius, it is one of the most affordable global whiskies. In India it retails for around ₹ 1,856.

Emblazoned on the cap are the words’ Sans Dieu Rien,’ translating to ‘Without God, nothing.’ Vat 69 is part of the Diageo stable.

Also Read: Label 5 Whisky

Vat 69 Blended Whisky Review

ABV: 40%

COLOUR: Light Gold

NOSE: Grain sweetness with a hint of alcohol on the nose, accompanied by toasted wood, caramel, and soft apple and pear notes.

PALATE: The palate surprises with creaminess, showcasing wood, cinnamon, grain sweetness, and hints of caramel apples and vanilla. Water tempers the sweetness, bringing forward black pepper and subtle ripe oranges.

FINISH: The finish echoes wood, pepper, and faint fruit notes.

RATING: VERY GOOD

While not the most intricate dram, Vat 69 Scotch whisky embraces simplicity with a ‘what you see is what you get’. The notes from the nose mirror the palate. Despite lacking in complex nuances, this whisky is very drinkable.

With a light body and abundant grain sweetness, it offers smoothness and remarkable value for money. Personally, I found it more enjoyable than the Johnnie Walker Red Label whisky, which, in comparison, had a slight alcohol burn, requiring a few extra drops of water to cool down.

This whisky is an excellent choice for cocktails. Whether crafting a Rob Roy or Rusty Nail, Vat 69 is the perfect pour, adding a touch of smooth sweetness to your next concoction.

Also Read: Scottish Leader Original Whisky

GlenDronach 15 year old Revival Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 01/22/2024

In Single Malt whisky

I looked through my social media for last year and noticed that quite a few of the bottles I tried during 2023 had green labelling. The colour unintentionally caught my eye, probably due to our move to the green island of Mauritius. Whatever the reason, it was a great excuse to start 2024 on a green note with the GlenDronach 15 yo Revival single malt Scotch whisky.

The story of GlenDronach began in 1826 when it was founded by a group led by James Allardes. The distillery was among the first to legally produce whisky under the Excise Act of 1823. The fifth Duke of Gordon played a significant role in encouraging the construction of GlenDronach, leading to its establishment.

GlenDronach, officially classified as a Highland malt, lies on the edge of the Speyside boundary. Over the years, the distillery changed hands multiple times. The owners included Walter Scott of Teaninich, Charles Grant, son of Glenfiddich’s founder, William Teacher and Sons, Allied Distillers, and Chivas Brothers.

Also Read: Glenbrynth Bourbon Cask Whisky

In 2008, BenRiach’s owners took over GlenDronach, investing £7 million in the distillery. New expressions, including a GlenDronach Peated, were introduced in 2015, showcasing the distillery’s innovative spirit.

However, in 2016, GlenDronach found a new home when the company was purchased by the renowned Jack Daniel’s producer, Brown-Forman, along with the rest of the BenRiach Distillery Company. This marked a significant chapter in GlenDronach’s history.

The GlenDronach 15 year old single malt was discontinued in 2015 due to stock shortages. However, much to the joy of whisky connoisseurs everywhere, it was re-released only 3 years later. The new edition was called Revival to celebrate the return of the release. The Revival Edition is matured in a combination of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks. It has a natural colour.

GlenDronach has become a favourite among Sherried malt enthusiasts and has garnered a considerable following in countries like Taiwan. I loved the GlenDronach 18 year old Scotch and have also tasted the 21 year old Parlement whisky.

GlenDronach 15 year old Revival Whisky Review

COUNTRY: Scotland

ABV: 46%

COLOUR: Polished bronze

NOSE: You can’t mistake the sherry cask maturation on the nose. Ripe plums and sultanas mixed with fig jam. Dark roasted coffee and red cherries with bits of cocoa. Toasted nuts in the background with light malt and oranges.

PALATE: Buttery pastry wrapped around figs and roasted apricots. There is a sherry sweetness with hints of wood and nuts mixed with bits of cloves and nutmeg. The roasted coffee nose from the nose is still here. Honey sweetness comes forward after adding a few drops of honey and brings vanilla notes to the front.

FINISH: A long and lingering finish that ends in notes of ripe plums, cinnamon and dried fruit.

RATING: EXCELLENT

What a lovely dram. This edition is a huge step up from the GlenDronach 12 year old whisky and probably my favourite after the 18 year old release. I personally think that it is better than the 21 year old edition. I have not tasted the older GlenDronach’s, so I can’t say if it is better, but I love what this distillery does with sherry casks.

When available, this release retails for around R1600 or around GBP 65. Worth adding to your collection.

Also Read: Macallan Quest Whisky