Manly Spirits "Coastal Stone" Elements Series Pinot Cask

From a virtual tasting, this whisky features an oaky nose with light red wine notes of berries, cherries, and stewed plums. The residual aroma is earthy with a pleasant "sweaty" quality. The palate is dry with oak and red fruits, but also astringent. Flavors include dried strawberries, stewed rhubarb, sour cherries in syrup with citrus, ginger, and a hint of roasted almonds, with tannins developing throughout. The finish is medium and mildly astringent with fruity oak. This is a second work-in-progress spirit, aged four years in first-fill Australian pinot-noir casks made of French oak, likely fresh and untoasted. It's expected to improve with more aging. A bit more softness could make it the best in their range. It has a fuller nose than other offerings, with discernible red fruit notes, but remains delicate on the palate, not a "wine bomb." Water did not enhance it; neat is preferred at 50% ABV, which is less noticeable than the bourbon cask expression. Despite its prominent dryness, it was the most interesting spirit of the night, narrowly beaten by the bourbon cask expression. With time, it could take the top spot. Both receive the same rating, as preference may vary. A bottle purchase is possible upon release, anticipated to be around $200, if it continues to develop. Rating: 81/100 (3 stars).