McRobert Single Malt Cask Strength

Nose: Malt, honey, citrus, a hint of oak. The aromas are pleasant and generally pleasing, without being overly distinct. Adding water makes little difference to the profile but does help to open up the whisky, making the aromas and alcohol presence more noticeable. Palate: A sweet start gives way to a powerful wave of malt and alcohol burn, followed by a spicy, peppery sting. The burn intensifies on the palate, requiring very small sips to enjoy neat. The texture is unremarkable. Diluting the whisky tames the alcohol burn considerably, but also introduces a bitter citrus note. Finish: Medium/Long. It has length but is straightforward. Malt with a strong alcohol burn that lingers. Water adds a lasting bitter citrus note. The neat nose is generic, as noted, resembling many good but not exceptional Scottish malts aged in ex-bourbon casks. It's a bit like Glen Grant 10 and Glen Moray Classic. There are no flaws, and surprisingly, no raw ethanol sting on the nose for a 61% ABV spirit. However, the palate is quite different and strongly shows the high alcohol content, with significant burn and sting, followed by a raw ethanol sensation. Tasting too much neat will overwhelm your palate for hours; reduction is essential for enjoyment. You've been warned. McRobert Distillery, a relatively new producer in Kelmscott, Western Australia, offers a diverse range of spirits, perhaps too many. Their offerings include single malt, peated single malt, bourbon-style, corn, rye, white rye, new-make, gin, and vodka. I found this whisky to be acceptable but not fully mature, in terms of both age and composition. Its youth is evident, and it lacks complexity, but it's a solid foundation for future development. Their products are also reasonably priced in 700ml bottles. Well done. “Average”: 79/100 (2.75 stars)