Cardrona Just Hatched Ex-Sherry

I had high hopes for this distillery's products after anticipating them for three years, since they first filled casks. A colleague invested alongside three siblings, pooling $10,000 NZD for a 250-liter barrel. Then, on Thursday, while socializing with university friends, someone they knew also co-purchased a barrel for $7,500 split five ways. Unfortunately, my colleague faced a decade-long wait, and the friend of my university pals anticipated a 30-year wait, meaning I wouldn't get to sample those anytime soon. They enjoyed unlimited tastings at the distillery, which was a perk. Anyway, during a Christmas meetup with another university friend in ChCh, I visited my most beloved bar globally and had the opportunity to try both their recent ex-sherry and ex-bourbon releases. These appeared to sell out immediately, which is remarkable considering a half bottle cost $150 NZD, exceeding $100 USD. So, did they live up to the hype? I preferred the sherry version. It offered butterscotch, caramel, and raisins, with a good balance and no rough edges. However, it was less robust than I desired. I certainly won't be purchasing a bottle, but it was a pleasure to experience a piece of history.

I eagerly anticipate future releases with more accessible age statements. This contained some genuinely pleasant flavors, but its youth was quite evident.