Whisky of the Week

Hankey Bannister 12 year old Whisky

On 10/22/2021

I have seen the brand Hankey Bannister around for a few years, but nothing enticed me to try it. That was until John was invited to a Hankey Bannister tasting at Bottega in Parkhurst. The beautiful little restaurant is owned by Savi and has an impressive collection of whiskies.

Margaret Clarke, the Senior Brand Manager, came to SA to introduce this blended Scottish whisky, to whisky lovers. She not only had the Hankey Bannister 12 year old whisky and the 25 year old whisky available to taste but also shared the rare Hankey Bannister 40 year old release with them. He loved all the whisky he tried, and so I bought him a bottle of the Hankey Bannister 12 year old whisky.

Hankey Bannister & Co. was established by Beaumont Hankey and Hugh Bannister in 1757. Beaumont Hankey was the flamboyant socialite, and Hugh Bannister was the astute businessman. Together they made a convincing team.

Their wine and spirit business was set up to provide the best wines and spirits for the rapidly developing tastes of London’s glitterati as well as the Royal Household.

They chose a combination of Lowland grains and Highland and Speyside malt whiskies to create their first blend, and this is what they became famous for. Rumour has it that this was one of the favourite blends of Sir Winston Churchill.

After various ownership changes, the brand is now owned by Inver House. It is a subsidiary of Thai Beverages. They also own the Pulteney, Balblair, anCnoc, Speyburn and Balmenach Distilleries. Hankey Bannister is looked after by the Master Blended Stuart Harvey and exported to over 40 countries.

Also Read: Grant’s Sherry Cask Edition whisky

Hankey Bannister 12 year old Whisky Review

Hankey Bannister blended whisky is loosely based on the original recipe. It contains about 30% of single malt whisky (mainly from the Balblair distillery but also Balmenach and Knockdhu). The remaining 70% is grain whisky. The Hankey Bannister 12 year old whisky is matured in American ex-Bourbon casks for 12 years. Available in SA for around R 350 a bottle.

ABV: 43%

COLOUR: Rich Gold.

NOSE: French Vanilla, Oak, Honey, fresh ripe figs.

PALATE: Medium body, but creamy and delicious. More oak and vanilla promised by the nose balanced with malt, fruity sweetness and raisins. This is a very drinkable dram. Adding water brings out creamy smoothness. It is not the most complex of blends, but it is easy drinking and affordable.

FINISH: Long and sweet ending in honey and sweet spice.

RATING: EXCELLENT

I will certainly extend my collection of this refreshing blend. Starting with the Hankey Bannister Original. This is the perfect whisky for a rainy afternoon. Warming and comforting, I just sat back, relaxed and watched the summer rain in Africa fall.

This is also a great whisky to pair with a vegetarian pizza. It has just the right level of spice to work marvellously with veggies and cheese.
Also Read: Johnnie Walker Green Label whisky

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon Whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 10/18/2021

In Bourbon whiskey

Earlier this year, I was privileged to attend an event featuring Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve. That’s when I had my first taste of the Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Kentucky Straight bourbon whiskey.

The moment I tasted the creamy toasted flavours, it instantly brought to mind the comforting embrace of Malva pudding. It was a match made in heaven, and I promptly added the Double Oaked into my ever-growing spirits collection.

The delectable Malva pudding is a beloved sweet dessert originating from the Cape Malay tradition in South Africa. This dessert is a South African favourite with its luscious apricot jam and spongy caramelised texture. It is often served piping hot alongside custard or ice cream. Some even elevate it with a touch of liquor or brandy, making it a perfect winter treat.

I’ve always enjoyed Woodford Reserve bourbon, both the whiskey and the brand itself. It’s one of those bourbons that pairs wonderfully with pizza and effortlessly elevates classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned.

But what sets the Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Kentucky Straight bourbon whiskey apart from the standard Woodford Reserve bourbon?

This unique expression begins its journey just like the classic Woodford Reserve bourbon. After its initial ageing, it’s further matured in fresh oak barrels that have been generously toasted and lightly charred.

This process imparts an additional layer of sweet oaken character to the bourbon while enhancing the notes of fruit, vanilla, and caramel. It’s the first new Woodford Reserve expression to emerge in over 15 years.

Also Read: Blanton’s Gold Edition Bourbon

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon Whiskey Review

COUNTRY: USA

ABV: 43.2%

COLOUR: Golden mahogany

NOSE: As you raise the glass, you’re greeted by the aromas of Malva pudding, apricot jam, cream, dark cherries, candied fruits, caramel, honey, and subtle hints of cinnamon.

PALATE: On the palate, there is honey, toasted oak, and a delightful interplay of fruity spices. Vanilla and caramel notes dance alongside hints of dark chocolate cherries. It’s a rich and smooth experience, and a few drops of water enhance the sweetness even further.

FINISH: The Double Oaked bourbon offers a medium-length finish, leaving behind a creamy embrace of cinnamon and honey that lingers on the palate.

RATING: EXCELLENT

The Woodford Reserve Double Oaked bourbon whiskey epitomises an unpretentious, comforting. It’s remarkably smooth, and has a warming, delicious finish. There’s a delightful richness to the palate that’s thoroughly enjoyable, striking an elegant balance between sweetness and spice.

It’s time to whip up some Malva pudding and pair it with the Double Oaked. I couldn’t resist comparing it with the Jim Beam Double Oak to truly appreciate this Woodford Reserve release’s subtle nuances and distinctiveness. in my opinion, there is a definate winner between these two releases.

I have paired this release with a creamy French Brie but it will work just as nicely with a Camembert. The pairing is decadent and delightful.

Also Read: Maker’s 46 Bourbon

Evan Williams vs Jack Daniel’s whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 10/11/2021

In Whisky Comparison

In this engaging three-part comparison series, I embark on a journey to dissect two iconic American whiskey giants: Evan Williams vs Jack Daniel’s whiskey.

My exploration commenced with a clash between Jim Beam and Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7, a showdown that divided our preferences. John leaned towards the robust charms of Jim Beam, while I preferred the smoothness of Jack Daniel’s.

Ultimately, the mellow notes of Jack Daniel’s, characterized by its blend of easy-drinking qualities, sweet vanilla, and toasted oak, clinched victory.

Next, on our tasting odyssey, we ventured into a captivating battle between Evan Williams and Jim Beam bourbon. Choosing a favourite between these two proved to be a more intricate challenge. However, the Jim Beam surged ahead. Its slightly heightened complexity and overall drinkability took centre stage, casting a formidable shadow over Evan Williams.

And now, my voyage through the world of American whiskey brings us to the eagerly anticipated Evan Williams vs Jack Daniel’s showdown. These releases share a similar price range and boast global recognition.

Evan Williams Bourbon Whiskey

Evan Williams Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey with glass b

Evan Williams, a distinguished straight bourbon from the Heaven Hill range, traces its origins back to 1783 when Evan Williams commenced bourbon distillation in Kentucky.

Heaven Hill introduced this specific bourbon release to the American market in 1957, and it continues to be distilled at the Bernheim Distillery in Louisville. With an age spanning 5-7 years, Evan Williams’ mash bill comprises 78% corn, 12% malted barley, and 10% rye, retailing for R250 in South Africa.

Jack Daniel’s Old No 7 Whiskey

Jack Daniel's Old No 7 with glass b

On the other side of the ring stands Jack Daniel’s, a legendary Tennessee whiskey that began its journey around 1875 thanks to the vision of Jasper Newton ‘Jack’ Daniel. His innovative Lincoln County process, which involves filtration through sugar maple charcoal before maturation, distinguishes this whiskey as a Tennessee classic.

While the distillery remained in Jack’s family until 1956, it subsequently found a new home with Brown-Forman. Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 whiskey features a mash bill of 80% corn, 8% rye, and 12% barley, and after charcoal filtration, the new spirit ages for a minimum of 4 years in new charred American oak barrels.

Evan Williams Bourbon vs Jack Daniel’s Whiskey

Evan Williams vs Jack Daniel's Whiskey Comparison

	Evan Williams Bourbon	Jack Daniel's Old no 7
Type	Bourbon Whiskey	Tennessee Whiskey
Mash Bill	78% corn, 12% malted barley and 10% rye	80% corn, 12% barley, and 8% rye
ABV	43%	43%
Colour	Dark reddish gold	Light amber
Nose	While it has the traditional bourbon notes of toasty oak and vanilla on the nose, there is an element of corn syrup floating around. The nose is very one-dimensional and not layered or complex.	Quite sweet with honey, vanilla and toasted oak with a hint of smoke. Dried red fruit and marzipan.
Palate	It offers little complexity. Toasty oak, vanilla and bits of spice. All kinds of rough edges and alcohol notes. It has a light body and mouthfeel. Adding water does little to increase the complexity. It unlocks notes of chilli and bitter orange peel.	Oak and butterscotch sweetness. A hint of sour cherries and cereal. Bits of fruit and loads of vanilla. It is quite an oily whiskey and has a medium body.
Finish	A bit rough and fortunately does not linger too long.	Medium length with some toasty oak, butterscotch and spice.
My Rating	Good	Very Good
Price	$12	$27

To maintain objectivity, we conducted a blind tasting, ensuring our personal biases would not influence the evaluation. Evan Williams bourbon whiskey has notes of toasted oak, vanilla, orange peel, and corn syrup, accompanied by a discernible alcohol burn. It showcases a straightforward profile but lacks complexity.

On the other side, Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 whiskey offers oak, cherries, and cereal with hints of vanilla. It proves to be a smoother, more easily sippable option, though not exceptionally complex.

Placed side by side, Jack Daniels emerges as the clear standout, boasting a richer sweetness and greater depth on the palate, with cherry and vanilla notes accentuated in comparison to Evan Williams.

Evan Williams embodies the quintessential bourbon character, but I found it one-dimensional with unwelcome raw alcohol notes. Unlike Jack Daniel’s, its sweetness leans towards a corn syrup artificiality. The finish on Evan Williams is notably short and laden with spice.

In contrast, Jack Daniel’s offers an oily, longer finish. In our final verdict, Jack Daniel’s emerges as the more memorable and favoured choice between these two distinguished releases, a testament to its enduring legacy in American whiskey.

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Also Read: Elijah Craig 12 yo vs Evan Williams Bourbon

Balblair 15 year old Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 10/08/2021

In Single Malt whisky

It is time to look at the second sample that I received from Balblair when they launched their new age statement releases. First up was the Balblair 12 year old single malt whisky which was a great start to the new range and a perfect introduction to the Balblair Distillery house style.

Today I look at the Balblair 15 year old single malt Scotch whisky. This release was first matured in ex-bourbon casks before being finished in first-fill Spanish oak butts.

According to the distillery tasting notes, the 15 year old have a deeper concentration of fruit notes compared to the 12 year old and have some yummy chocolatey elements too. Together with the Balblair 12 year old and the 15 year old, Balblair has also released a 17 year old whisky, an 18 year old as well as a Balblair 21 year old whisky.

I have a small love affair with 15 yo whiskies. For me, it is as if the little bit extra time in the wood adds something unique to the dram. Some of my favourite releases are 15-year-olds. Will this release also join my favourite 15?

The Balblair 15 year old single malt is non-chill-filtered and natural colour. It was aged in ex-bourbon casks and finished in first-fill Spanish oak butts. Balblair distillery is owned by Inver House Distillers.

Balblair 15 year old Whisky Review

REGION: Highland

ABV: 46%

COLOUR: Bright amber

NOSE: Fruity sweetness, ginger with toasted oak. Freshly baked sugar cookies with cinnamon and dried fruit. Rich and inviting.

PALATE: Dried apple rings, cinnamon and nutmeg spiciness and dried oak. Dark chocolate covered orange slices, red berries and summer fruit salad drizzled with honey. Delicious and rich. I so enjoyed the 15 year old that I finished my glass without even adding a bit of water.

FINISH: The best part of this dram. Delicious and long filled with dried oak, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cream.

RATING: EXCELLENT

It is interesting how the additional time spent in sherry casks have changed this release compared to the Balblair 12 year old whisky. A very different mouthfeel and more complex when compared to the 12 year old.

You can recognize the house style, but the extra time in the casks added depth and intensity to the Balblair 15 year old whisky. Very delicious!

Sample disclosure: I received this sample from Balblair. Though received as part of a promotional event, the review and tasting notes are my own honest, fair and independent thoughts about the whisky.

Three Ships Virgin Oak Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 10/04/2021

In Single Malt whisky

It is no secret that I love the whisky that comes out of the James Sedgwick distillery. The
Three Ships single cask and limited editions sell out quickly. The Master’s Collection usually disappears within hours. When Pick n Pay brought out the Three Ships Virgin Oak Cask single malt whisky, I immediately picked up a bottle.

But with alcohol bans and everything going on, I have not captured my tasting notes yet; And it is time.

After many years of asking, in June 2018, the first independent bottled Three Ships was released when Checkers bottled the Private Barrel Co. James Sedgwick Distillery 6 yo whisky. It was the first South African whisky to join the exclusive Private Barrel Co. collection of whiskies.

The James Sedgwick Distillery 6 yo whisky is a lightly peated whisky that spent its first 3 years in older American Oak, followed by 3 years in a seasoned Fino Cask. It was bottled at a very respectable 54.6% ABV, and I rated it Excellent.

Also Read: Santis Malt Alpstein Edition Whisky

That Boutique-y Whisky Company quickly followed with a Three Ships 6 yo whisky. This 6 yo was matured in American oak and finished in PX casks. Only 1 150 bottles were produced. The artwork on the label depicts Master Distiller Andy Watts filling a Three Ships whisky cask with whisky. It was bottled at 53.7% ABV, and I rated it Very Good.

WhiskyBrother and Co have also collaborated with Three Ships, and their latest release was a 9 yo single casks that were bottled in 2020. These independently bottled releases are extremely popular and sell out quickly.

Now Pick n Pay also jumped on the bandwagon and released a Virgin Oak Cask single malt botting. This specific single malt was hand-selected by Andy Watts, Master Distiller.

Three Ships Virgin Oak Whisky Review

It is non-chill-filtered, natural in colour, and matured in virgin American oak. It was exclusively bottled for Pick n Pay and limited to 2 480 bottles.

ABV: 48.6%

COUNTRY: South Africa

COLOUR: Rich amber

NOSE: Sweet oak spices, vanilla, subtle smoke and fresh pine needles. Unusual and inviting with a nearly tropical fruitiness in the background.

PALATE: Toasted oak, smoky black tea with pepper and nutmeg. It is quite oily, and there are hints of toffee. Bits of fruity sweetness with bread pudding and apricot jam. White pepper, subtle smoke and cinnamon apples. A few drops of water brings the pepper spices to the front but dampens the complexity.

FINISH: Medium length and warming with pepper vanilla and a maltiness.

RATING: VERY GOOD

As usual, the whisky coming from the James Sedwick distillery in Cape Town is world-class. The releases are unusual and complex, with bold flavours. For me personally, the Virgin Oak Cask is a bit too spicy. My palate prefers a sweeter dram and gravitates more towards the Bain’s whisky releases.

John enjoyed this release more as his palate is not quite as sweet. I think this release will work wonderfully with a robust, creamy cheese such as an aged cheddar or something similar.

Also Read: A visit to Chamarel Rum Distillery