Penderyn Single Cask

This single cask offering, matured in ex-bourbon barrels and bottled for Oklahoma at nearly 60% ABV, is my first experience with Penderyn. The nose presents green apple, cotton candy, banana, pear tart, and creamy custard. Upon tasting, the alcohol content is quite pronounced. I rarely find whiskies to be too intense, but this one is. A small amount of water is needed to calm the Welsh dragon. Post-dilution, flavors emerge of pear juice, ginger, honey, banana, tropical fruit, and coffee. The finish becomes rather bitter. While there are some appealing flavors present, it's likely too young and lacks balance. Without water, it's excessively harsh, and with water, it finishes with excessive bitterness. As this was a holiday gift, I have no qualms regarding the personal cost, but if I were purchasing it myself, I would not buy it at the local price of over $100, and it's not making me eager to explore their other products.

Nose: Apple pie, vanilla, shortbread Palate: Apple tart, toffee Finish: Creamy vanilla, Oak