Ballechin 19 Year Old
Cask Info: Matured in Manzanilla Sherry casks.
ABV | Chill Filtration | Natural Color | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
55% | No | Yes | $190 |
Nose: Like an old castle in smoldering ruins. Smoky barbecue sauce, Medjool dates, dried enoki mushrooms, leather, gasoline, and burnt tire. Beneath these smoky, umami aromas lies a subtle layer of honey. Adding water shifts the smokiness to a more earthy quality, unveiling hints of black pepper and nutmeg.
Palate: Sweet upon arrival with a chewy texture, though the sweetness dissipates quickly. And oh my! It’s so pungent that it practically demands the addition of water! Once diluted, flavors of nutmeg, cloves, and fresh jalapeño emerge. Further dilution brings out sweetened cocoa powder.
Finish: The finish is dry and long, with a strong presence of spices and woodiness.
Final Thought: This whisky is not for the faint-hearted. Without water, your tongue will get burned and numb within a few sips. It requires a substantial amount of water to fully open up. Even then, I find the flavors somewhat unidimensional. Frankly speaking, this has been my experience with many Ballechin releases. They are demanding in nature. It takes effort to find the right balance. While it may not suit all palates, the process of discovery can be a rewarding experience.
Girl with Cask Strength Score: 86/100.
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