Fifty Stone Single Malt

Though this distillery is close to my home in New Hampshire, I didn't know about Fifty Point until a commenter brought it up on my Oppidan Smoke and Sea review. I looked at the distillery's website and it seems Fifty Stone is only distributed in Maine. Fortunately, their store locator showed Fifty Stone just fifteen minutes away, across the state line at Walgreens. While this might not seem unusual to some, finding spirits next to toothpaste and deodorant is uncommon in the Northeast. But many things about Maine are unique, odd, or intriguing. This whiskey is certainly interesting and different because the malt is smoked with seaweed, a very noticeable characteristic on both smell and taste. The bottle calls Fifty Stone a "Highland style malt," which I agree with, as it shares similarities with maritime Highlands like Old Pulteney and Clynelish. On the nose and palate, expect notes of cereal, vanilla, honey, and citrus. The most intense sea salt note I've ever encountered is also present, along with distinct seaweed that emerges at the end of the palate. There's a strong ethanol presence mid-palate, but very little burn on the finish. A mild burnt toast note is there too, likely from the seaweed smoke. The malt tastes young but is not dry and is fairly rich. The whiskey presents as two distinct yet complementary elements: the malt whiskey and the smoky seaweed. If I'd been told it was a single malt finished in seaweed barrels, I would have believed it, though I have no idea what a seaweed barrel is. Ultimately, your enjoyment of this whiskey will depend on your feelings about the blend of these two distinct components – highland malt and smoked seaweed. I anticipate divided opinions. For me, the combination is somewhat challenging but effective. It's a complex drink, and the unusual flavors will likely keep it intriguing until the end. While not a regular sipper for me, it's a refreshing change from the usual. It truly captures the spirit of many seaside towns along the rocky Maine coast. Kudos to Maine Craft Distilling for a truly inventive dram! I'm giving it a 3.75, rounded up to 4.0 because I appreciate the concept and the brilliant expression of the local terroir.

$45 for a 750ml bottle, 45% alcohol by volume. Maine Craft Distilling puts in a commendable effort, striving to embody Maine's local character, adhering to their 'Farm to flask' philosophy. Even the white oak for the barrels is sourced locally. Did they achieve this? Presently, it seems you'll need to visit Maine to find out, as the spirit is only distributed statewide. As for my experience... It presents aromas of cereal and honey, in abundance. There are also hints of biscuits and salted butter. The peat and seaweed used in kilning impart smoke, but not at a level suitable for campfire or barbecue. Perhaps enough phenols to evoke memories of a recent clam bake at Popham Beach. On tasting, I experience an initial sweetness and brine with a touch of salt. The flavor then evolves into a buttery biscuit, followed by lingering notes of cereal and honey in the finish. It bears a slight resemblance to Bruichladdich's Classic Laddie, but only faintly. There are no details on the bottle regarding unfiltered status or natural color, though it appears to be naturally colored. An age statement would also be a welcome addition. I must say, Maine offers many wonderful things: seafood, blueberries, a stunning coastline, beautiful mountains, forested lakes, and excellent hunting and fishing. To this list, I would add Maine Craft Distilling's Fifty Stone.

I've always been intrigued by this one. It's a young American craft single malt made with floor malted barley, which is uncommon in the US and most Scottish distilleries, and then smoked with seaweed and American peat. Sadly, it's quite difficult to find outside of Maine and certain North Atlantic states. Fortunately, a sample was provided to me. I have a fondness for craft American distilleries; there's something about the dedication and optimistic outlook. One of my personal goals is to sample American whiskey from every state, though I might have to wait for Alaska. Unfortunately, numerous craft distilleries release products that are either too young or simply overpriced for their quality. This particular offering, however, doesn't fall into that category. At just over $40, it's reasonably priced. And if you enjoy the medicinal peat notes of Islay, you'll find this appealing. While it's marketed as being made in the Highland style, a strong aroma of peat suggests otherwise. You'll notice a substantial amount of medicinal iodine, brine, and salt, all combined with a buttery pastry dough. It resembles a Laphroaig but with less complexity. If you happen to be traveling through Maine, New Hampshire, or Vermont, grab a bottle. For $40-45 USD, it's a solid choice. Thanks for the sample!

This is less robust than Westland or some other west coast malts, with a very floral finish. It's smooth and easy to savor. It has a slight youthfulness with grain flavors, but that's not a significant drawback if you appreciate those notes.

Young whisky that lacks some depth but is nevertheless a genuine microdistillery gem. You can truly taste the sea. Keep going this way, perhaps increase the peat slightly and add some years of aging.

Initially, it reminded me of a parmesan-crusted crouton, but over time, I detect more of a salty wheat cracker sensation while relaxing by the sea. I would definitely suggest it.