Lohin McKinnon Chocolate Malt Single Malt Whisky

Nose: Plenty of chalky malted chocolate (medium dark, not bitter), a damp paint scent (not really unpleasant), a hint of honey, a touch of drywall and plaster, some beeswax, agave syrup, dark chocolate-covered red and white grapes, white chocolate raisins, blueberries coated in milk chocolate, some medium-ripe purple plums, a touch of chestnut, some almonds, citrus (pink grapefruit with lemon peel), light furniture wood, ripe pear, very ripe and sweet clementine, green apple with chocolate sauce, creamy white confections, some light and sweet cinnamon, fresh figs. Palate: Green apple, honey, malty milk chocolate, dried fruits (cognac-like, apricots, golden raisins), figs dipped in medium dark chocolate, green bell pepper, a touch of oak spice, agave/Mezcal green notes, a hint of cocoa, toasted almonds, light roast coffee, earthiness almost like peat, malt sweetness. Finish: Medium dark chocolate (almost Kit Kat-like), coffee liqueur, candied lime peel, oak spice and barrel tannins, green apple skins, malt sugars.

Bottled by Central City Brewers and Distillers in British Columbia, Canada. This single malt was matured in Sauternes Barrels. No age is listed. The aroma presents notes of wine/Sauternes barrels, fruit, sweetness, and a touch of brandy. The palate is complex with chocolate, brandy, and a noticeable Sauternes/wine barrel presence, complemented by a suitable level of sweetness. It finishes long with a very pleasant aftertaste that evolves as the bottle is consumed. While it might be expensive for some, it is a high-quality product deserving of its price. A try is highly recommended. Cost: $44.95 plus tax for a 750 ml. Grade: A-

For a whisky advertised as "chocolate malt," it's surprisingly not very sweet. I do get a hint of cocoa, but this is far from a dessert drink. There's a touch of oak and vanilla, and no smoke or peat; it's nearly bland with a bit of water. It's acceptable, but I believe the "chocolate" on the label is misleading as it doesn't add much to the overall flavor, and there isn't much else to compensate. I'd choose other whiskies before returning to this one.

A dark, deep, and rich scent, with earthy undertones. The palate is creamy, featuring abundant roasted malt that dissolves into a dark chocolate conclusion. It's akin to slightly charred, sugared butter, accompanied by ample dried fruit and a hint of baking spice. My preferred among the Lohin McKinnon malts!

Good dark fruit flavors, good sweetness, and a good amount of chocolate. Definitely the best Canadian whiskey I've had. The chocolate and roast does linger for a bit. I like!

Observed a chocolate-like aroma and flavor on July 13th 2019 at Central City pub in Surrey. Quite pleasing!