Lark Single Malt Cask Strength

Australian Single Malt Whisky Tasting (Part 2), The Oak Barrel, Sydney 17 January 2020, Whisky #5 Nose: Sweet and abundant, with malt, leather, and subtle spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Vanilla and honey are present, alongside dark oranges, dried apricots, butterscotch syrup, and light oak. Overall, it's a rich and complex malty aroma with a hint of smoke. Palate: A substantial malty richness hits first with an oily, coating texture. Developing flavors include ginger snap cookies, Christmas cake, fresh red apples, crème caramel, dried dates, dried figs, and butterscotch pastry. A faint trace of smoke is detectable. Finish: Long-lasting with resonant toffee cereal notes and a warm, citrus aftertaste. This whisky, while not overly intricate, offers straightforward depth in each component. It's a deeply satisfying and rewarding spirit. Adding water brings out more creaminess and richness without dilution. The fruit notes become brighter, the texture more refined, the spices sharper, and the smoke slightly more pronounced. It handles significant dilution well. Bill Lark is considered the pioneer of Australian whisky; his efforts in the 1990s to reform legislation were instrumental in the development of Australia's current whisky, rum, and gin industries. His ability to also produce spirits of exceptional quality further highlights his talent and dedication. Lark Distillery periodically releases Lark Cask Strength Single Malt in various forms, with each batch differing based on the casks used, which have included first-fill ex-bourbon, sherry, and port barrels in varied combinations and sizes. Maturation sometimes involves an initial aging in fortified wine casks followed by ex-bourbon. The age and proof vary, as it's bottled "when and as it's ready." Different bottle shapes and labels have been used over time, with sizes of 200ml, 500ml, and 700ml. "Very Good": 87/100 (4.25 stars)

This really invigorates the senses! Prominent notes of dried fruit from the port casks are noticeable. There's a subtle hint of anise, though opinions differ. Also, orange peel is present. On the palate, an initial sweetness gives way to the alcohol. After that subsides, a creamy vanilla flavor emerges, leading to a sticky, somewhat bitter yet pleasant finish.

A thoroughly pleasant spirit enjoyed during a visit to Lark Distillery.

A substantial spirit.