Kinsip Headland's Hearth

It's truly exciting to witness the evolution of Ontario's whisky scene. A local distillery released their latest single malt, a 'grain-to-glass' 100% malted barley spirit. This particular expression was aged in a Scottish barrel and then finished in an Oloroso sherry cask. It sold out almost instantly, leading to disappointment for many. I was overjoyed to have the chance to sample this creation. The nose presents a subtle savory peat with apple and moss notes, reminiscent of scenic hills leading to a stone fortress. It possesses an unexpected depth and maturity, opening up after a few minutes with added notes of oak, nuts, and caramel. Upon tasting, a brief sweet apricot tanginess with white pepper gives way to a pleasant crescendo of bitter smokiness. This peat is more dry and savory, akin to a BBQ skewer with a cocoa rub and a spritz of lime. The smoke is never overwhelming. I prefer a bit more body, but this is a very accessible pour for whisky enthusiasts, especially those who enjoy coffee. This dram could even serve as an introduction to peat for those curious about smoky flavors. Hearth, much like its literal meaning, evokes feelings of coziness and warmth (like a hot beverage by a fireplace), and this dram achieves that effect for me.