Pike Creek 21 Year Finished in Speyside Single Malt Casks

The second sample from last year's Northern Border limited releases offers a stark, unfavorable comparison to the excellent Gooderham. The subtle floral notes on the bouquet are difficult to discern due to an overpowering ethanol presence. The palate presents soft caramel notes, but they are swiftly eclipsed by a very spicy, almost harsh conclusion. My experience seems to be an outlier, so perhaps my sample was unusual, but it's more likely this bottling fails to meet the expectations set by its age and maturation.

This is a superb Canadian whisky. The nose has abundant toffee, butter, with hints of oak and fruit. The palate is rich with baking spices, a touch of pepper, and plenty of cooked brown sugar. It has a very coating texture, strongly reminiscent of buttered baked goods. The finish is only medium length, but allows more of the oak to emerge. Overall, it's a bit too sweet for my preference, but it's easy to sip and certainly a complex spirit for an evening's enjoyment.

A very good initial impression of smooth, rich caramelized oak, sweet toffee, and a touch of apple acidity. However, it has a dry mouthfeel and generally seems a bit lacking in body. It's most comparable to Gibson's Venerable, offering a similar impression of good quality that falls just short. I wouldn't refuse it, but I prefer the 10-year rum finish over this. It costs $90 in Ontario.

A one-dimensional, sweet rum-like character. Aroma: Vanilla, Molasses, Maple Syrup, Cherries, Peaches, Oranges, White Chocolate Taste: Vanilla, Molasses, Raisins, Milk Chocolate, Demarara Syrup Finish: Demarara Syrup, Treacle, Maple Syrup, Vanilla

Absolutely dazzling. Delivers warmth, comfort, and sweetness with remarkable gentleness. A complex spirit that truly shines on the coldest Canadian nights.

Peppery, hot, and cereal-like