Tag: journey

Posted on

Highland Park 12 Years: A Journey Through Subtlety – Whiskey Review

Rating: 5/10 – Rating System

Introduction
Highland Park 12 Years epitomizes the artistry and tradition synonymous with Scottish single malts. Nestled in the remote Orkney Islands, this expression reflects the rugged yet serene landscape that shapes its distinctive character. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this whisky embodies the essence of time-honored techniques, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Highland Park distillery. Aged for 12 years, this expression beckons enthusiasts to embark on a sensory journey marked by subtlety and sophistication.

Eye
In the glass, Highland Park 12 presents a burnished gold hue, shimmering with hints of amber. Its appearance is inviting, hinting at the depth of flavors within.

Nose
The nose reveals a harmonious blend of heather honey, subtle peat, and a whisper of smoke. There’s a delicate floral essence that intertwines with notes of citrus zest and a touch of spiced oak, creating an inviting bouquet.

Palate
Upon the palate, the whiskey offers a smooth and well-rounded experience. It introduces itself with a sweet, honeyed taste, quickly followed by a gentle smokiness. This is complemented by hints of dried fruit, specifically raisins and apricots, adding a layer of complexity and depth.

Finish
The finish is moderate in length, leaving a lingering warmth on the tongue. It brings back traces of the honeyed sweetness and a subtle peatiness, gently fading away, inviting another sip.

Conclusion
Highland Park 12 Years embodies subtlety and balance, offering a nuanced experience for whiskey aficionados. While it doesn’t shout its presence, it certainly leaves a lasting impression with its delicate interplay of flavors. The honeyed sweetness, combined with a restrained peatiness, makes it an approachable choice for those exploring the world of single malts.

Summary
Category: Single Malt Scotch
ABV: 40%
Eye: Burnished gold with amber hues
Nose: Heather honey, subtle peat, citrus zest, spiced oak
Taste: Honeyed sweetness, gentle smoke, dried fruits
Finish: Moderate, lingering warmth with honeyed sweetness and subtle peat

History and Fun Facts
Highland Park’s story is steeped in the mists of time, tracing its roots back to 1798 when it was founded by Magnus Eunson. Legends whisper that Magnus, a notorious smuggler and church officer, operated an illicit still at the site of the distillery. Whether fact or folklore, this colorful history adds to the allure of Highland Park’s legacy. The distillery stands on sacred ground, surrounded by ancient Norse runes and the echoes of Viking heritage, reflected in the distillery’s logo – the mythical lion and dragon, guardians of Orkney.

The uniqueness of Highland Park lies not only in its location but also in its traditional production methods. The distillery still practices floor malting, a labor-intensive process where barley is turned by hand, fostering the development of rich, malty flavors. The Orkney peat, which imparts its subtle smokiness, is another facet of the island’s influence on this revered whisky. Highland Park’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship has earned it a place among the esteemed distilleries of Scotland, making it a beloved choice for discerning whisky enthusiasts.

Posted on

Larceny Bourbon Small Batch: A Tasting Journey through American Bourbon Craftsmanship – Whiskey Review

Rating 5/10 (Rating System)

Introduction

Larceny Bourbon Small Batch, with an ABV of 92 proof, beckons bourbon enthusiasts to embark on a captivating journey into the heart of this time-honored spirit. Crafted with precision and care, it invites us to explore the world of bourbon through its complex and enticing flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your bourbon adventure, this bottle holds the promise of an unforgettable sensory experience.

Eye

In the glass, Larceny Bourbon Small Batch presents itself with a rich, deep amber hue. Its color is reminiscent of polished mahogany, inviting anticipation of a complex and well-aged spirit.

Nose

The nose is a symphony of aromas. It begins with prominent notes of vanilla and caramel, immediately giving a sense of sweetness and warmth. Beneath these, there are subtle hints of toasted oak and a touch of spicy cinnamon. The bouquet is a harmonious blend of classic bourbon scents, enticing the drinker with its complexity.

Palate

On the palate, Larceny Bourbon Small Batch delivers a well-rounded and balanced experience. The initial sip is greeted by a wave of caramel and toffee, creating a luscious sweetness. As it develops, the palate unfolds with flavors of ripe cherries and dried fruits, adding depth to the taste. The oak influence is apparent but not overpowering, with hints of baking spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. The mouthfeel is silky and smooth, making it an easy sipper.

Finish

The finish is a highlight of this bourbon. It lingers gracefully, leaving behind a warm and comforting sensation. The sweetness subsides gradually, making way for the spices and oak to resurface. A gentle, medium-length finish that invites you to savor each sip.

Conclusion

Larceny Bourbon Small Batch is a testament to the art of bourbon craftsmanship. It strikes a harmonious balance between sweetness and spice, with a well-integrated oak influence. This bourbon is approachable for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts, making it a versatile addition to your collection.

Summary

Category: Bourbon
ABV: 46%
Eye: Deep amber
Nose: Vanilla, caramel, toasted oak, cinnamon
Taste: Caramel, toffee, cherries, dried fruits, baking spices
Finish: Medium-length, warming, with a blend of sweetness and spice

History and Fun Facts

Larceny Bourbon Small Batch hails from a family-owned distillery with a storied history dating back to the early days of American bourbon production. The distillery’s legacy spans generations, with each passing down the secrets of crafting exceptional spirits. This bourbon pays homage to traditional techniques, with its mash bill carefully selected to create a unique and memorable flavor profile. The small batch production ensures meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a consistently outstanding bourbon that has garnered a loyal following. Larceny Bourbon Small Batch has been recognized with numerous awards, cementing its status as a noteworthy addition to the bourbon landscape. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail, it embodies the enduring legacy of American bourbon craftsmanship and is a testament to the dedication of those who have poured their passion into this bottle.

Posted on

Unveiling Little Book Chapter 6 “To the Finish”: A BBQ-Infused Whiskey Journey – Whiskey Review

Rating 7/10 (Rating System)

Nose:

Little Book Chapter 6 “To the Finish” presents itself with a delicate yet captivating nose. The first impression offers a subtle waft of light cinnamon that intertwines harmoniously with the comforting aroma of toasted almonds. The nose carries a medium to high intensity, inviting you to explore further. Just beneath the surface, there’s a hint of BBQ smoke, adding an unexpected and intriguing layer to the olfactory experience. This initial scent promises a unique and complex journey ahead.

Taste:

Upon the first sip, the whiskey’s profile unfolds with a captivating blend of sweet and savory spices that dance on the palate. The flavors, dominated by a distinct BBQ essence, hold their ground and develop over the tasting. This savory quality creates a delightful contrast with the underlying sweetness, keeping your taste buds engaged and intrigued. Amidst the symphony of flavors, a subtle hint of oak emerges, offering a foundation that enhances the overall complexity.

Finish:

The finish of Little Book Chapter 6 “To the Finish” is a testament to its name. It lingers gracefully, carrying a long-lasting warmth that envelopes the senses. The BBQ flavors that were prominent on the palate continue to evolve during the finish, creating a memorable and evolving farewell. This extended finale provides ample opportunity to savor each nuance and allows the whiskey’s character to linger in a satisfying manner.

Overall, Little Book Chapter 6 “To the Finish” offers a distinctive tasting experience with its balanced interplay of spices, BBQ notes, and subtle oak. The nose presents an intriguing invitation, while the palate maintains interest with its sweet and savory complexity. The finish, undoubtedly the highlight, leaves a lasting impression with its prolonged warmth and evolving flavors. While not without its complexities, some drinkers might find the BBQ notes a bit dominant. However, for those seeking a whiskey that pushes the boundaries and offers a unique adventure, Little Book Chapter 6 “To the Finish” certainly delivers. With its intriguing mix of flavors and a captivating finish, it earns a solid rating of 7/10.

Category: American Whiskey
ABV: 58.7% Vol
Nose: Light cinnamon, Toasted almonds, Medium to high intensity, Hint of BBQ
Taste: Sweet & Savory spices, Flavors (mostly BBQ) last, Hint of Oak
Finish: Long finish (with warmth)

LCBO
This one-of-a-kind series features unique cask-strength whiskies that are masterfully blended resulting in Chapter 6 ‘To The Finish’. Complex aromas of savoury and sweet mingle expertly among the notes of charred oak. Rich toasted grain with sweet wood smoke on the palate, finishing with a robust and balanced sweetness.

BC Liquor Store
Full bodied, caramelized oak with hints of sweet baking spices.