Kavalan, Sherry Cask, Cask Strength (US Release)

In summary, a wonderfully complex fruity whisky with unique medicinal undertones that will astound you. So, I've been holding onto this one. I bought it a few months ago and decided to open it while on vacation at my favorite place, the Drakensberg, in Kwa-Zulu Natal, at the foot of The Amphitheater Mountain. Before diving in, my research uncovered an interesting detail about Kavalan whisky from thewhiskyshelf.com - “Taiwan is certainly an interesting place to make whiskey given its location near the equator. In general, it’s intensely hot and humid for over half the year, creating an environment for the oak and whiskey to interact that’s different than it is in Scotland or even Japan. The more hot and humid climate also accelerates the aging process, allowing Kavalan to release younger whiskeys. This plays into Kavalan’s favor given how relatively young the distillery is. Most of the Kavalan Single Casks I’ve seen are in the 5-8 year range, making this 10 year old Kavalan Sherry Single Cask Whiskey unique.” Now, for my tasting notes. This whisky looks distinctive and special. Its dark and moody appearance sets the stage for something different. The nose is full of massive sherry notes, which is no surprise considering the wonderfully dark tones of this spirit. Taste is unmistakably sherry-sweet on the first sip, with unique herbal undertones. It reminds me of licorice in places. It’s rich, full-bodied, and a bit demanding. There's no need to rush this one; it almost compels you to savor it over time. After a few sips, the sherry character becomes less dominant, and the whisky's medicinal qualities emerge. With each sip, you find yourself enveloped in herbal energy. Yes, it's definitely sherry; the herbal infusion is what kept me coming back for more. Then, the dram continues to impress. Following the herbal base, notes of plums, nuts, and spice arise. I've never before enjoyed a whisky whose flavor profile evolves over time, revealing new notes, tones, and characteristics. On the first sip, I was drinking a full-bodied, sweet sherry cask whisky; now, after a few sips, I'm enjoying a wonderfully spicy and herbal whisky with a fruit and nut foundation.

Simply outstanding, I understand why this earned the 2015 Single Malt of the Year award. It's one of the most distinctive, full-bodied whiskies I've ever had the pleasure of tasting. Nose is delicate but carries warm dried fruit and a cotton-candy undertone. Palate bursts with flavor, featuring deep plums and grapes with a hot grenadine finish that leaves your tongue buzzing. Finish has bourbon characteristics with char and brown sugar. I'll be searching for more bottles because I doubt the one I just opened will last long!