Lark Distilling Rum & PX Sherry Finish Single Malt Whisky

Aroma profile: Initial impression of overwhelming butterscotch, honey, toffee, and malted milk. Over time, tropical notes like mango and papaya emerged, alongside sweet orange. Dilution amplified the tropical fruit character. Taste: A remarkable arrival featuring rich fruitcake (dried apple, cherries, plums, raisins) that transitioned to gentler, lighter fruits. Similar to the nose, orange and mango were prominent, complemented by fresh apricot and peach. The latter part of the palate revisited the fruitcake notes with hints of dark toffee and demerara sugar, which lingered into the extended finish. The texture was simultaneously silky, creamy, and slightly syrupy. Dilution mellowed the palate and enhanced its creamy quality. Conclusion: Extremely prolonged. The taste seemed to fade away gradually over an exceptional duration, with clear flavors persisting for half an hour after consumption. Although matured in a mix of ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and ex-rum casks, the wood influence is not dominant. The barrels contribute a vibrant, fresh fruit character balanced by a subtle toffee note from the rum. It's a blend of whiskies aged 5-7 years, likely with a significant portion from ex-bourbon, while PX and rum casks were used for added complexity. I always appreciated older Lark bottlings, but some expressions released by the new management didn't impress me. However, after sampling the Classic Cask Strength and then this Rum & PX version following a visit to the distillery, I had to reassess. This is the finest Lark whisky I've encountered. It evokes big, sherry-influenced Speyside whiskies (like Aberlour, Glenfarclas, and Benrinnes) but possesses a smoothness akin to Strathisla and a unique fresh fruitiness. In essence, it's a potent, sweet Australian single malt soaked in rum and raisins, and I absolutely loved it. Its prohibitive cost is the only barrier; I nearly purchased a bottle and may still. Recommended. “Excellent”: 88/100 (4.5 stars)