Paniolo Blended Whiskey

Hali'imaile Distilling Company openly acknowledges sourcing the base spirit for their Paniolo Blended Whiskey. However, they do not disclose the proportion of neutral spirit added. This neutral spirit is the reason for the "blended" designation on the label. Neutral spirits can be derived from various sources like potato skins, sugar, or grapes, and in this case: pineapple. Whiskey, by definition, must be distilled from grain. The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) mandates that "blended whiskey" must contain at least 20% straight whiskey, with the remainder being neutral spirit. The distillery excels at distilling vodka from pineapple using a distinctive setup with glass stills resembling laboratory equipment. They have even acquired a Maui Gold pineapple farm. Paniolo Blended Whiskey combines a 3-year-old Heaven Hill bourbon (confirmed by the tasting room staff) with a portion of neutral spirit distilled from pineapple. After blending, it undergoes an additional 3 years of aging. The aroma presents familiar nutty, cinnamon, and brown sugar notes characteristic of Evan Williams. The palate features vanilla, caramel, brown sugar, and some charred oak. The finish is brief, with black pepper and a subtle sweetness. Each visit to Maui, particularly, seems to make everyday worries and the fast pace of life fade away, replaced by tranquility and relaxation. Paniolo Blended Whiskey is an ideal companion in paradise: flavorful enough to savor without being overly complex, allowing for unburdened enjoyment.

Nose: Pleasant and sweet, with notes of butter rum. Sweet and sharp, with strong brown sugar notes. It tastes like what I imagine Irish Mist liquor mixed with Everclear would be like. Finish: A short finish with a slightly tart aftertaste. A straightforward drink that is enjoyable when paired with grilled pineapple on a warm day.

Aroma: Smells as expected – corn, pineapple, and sugar, but lacks depth. Palate: Predominantly corn on the palate, with minimal spice initially, though some develops throughout the dram. Pineapple reappears (unremarkable). Finish: Uninspired and sweet. However, the warmth is a surprising comfort.

Sweet, reminiscent of rum. Evokes an island vibe, suitable for those who don't typically enjoy whiskey. It's pleasant when mixed with soda water and enjoyed on a patio.

The aroma is harsh. The body is quite sweet, but it still finishes with a bite. It has a dual character, almost like a cordial.

Young. Sharp and spicy. Needs ice... maybe two cubes. I prefer smooth drinks, but if you like a bit of a kick, give it a shot.