Slyrs Bavarian Single Malt

We conducted a blind tasting, and this was a major surprise for me. I've always avoided German whisky as I'm just beginning my exploration of scotch. The aroma was unlike any whisky I'd tried from this distillery before, as it was very distinct. On the nose, there's creamy milk chocolate, dried apricots, and white chocolate, followed by more dried fruits, yet it still smells fresh and intensely floral. Everything is very strong. The palate is also creamy but not overly sweet. It tastes like custard, perhaps with a hint of sherry (though sherry wasn't used for aging). It's sweet, fruity, and smooth. While light and delicate initially, it quickly intensifies. This is all attributed to the virgin oak casks used for the entire aging process. I suspect it's quite young. These virgin oak casks give it a powerful impact on the aroma. Very unexpected.

A delightful slow burn, quite interesting and original. Notes of rye bread and wheat. Sharp fruits, bordering on tart cider at the end. A distinct touch of ginger is present. It softens with air, as it needs time to breathe to show its best. It's a bit mouth-puckering, but not unpleasantly so. I really enjoyed it, though it's quite potent. Think the opposite of a peated Speyside. There's also a metallic aftertaste, but again, it works here. So, a dram with personality and a bit of a challenge. I'm a fan because it's unique, but not bizarre. This is easier to drink than my description suggests. Take a risk!

Whisky is now produced all over the world, so let's try Slyrs Classic from Germany. Established in 1999, Slyrs distillery uses primarily new American oak casks to mature their single malts. The nose is perfumy and somewhat young with sweet pastry, vanilla powder, and fresh flowers, with occasional notes of ginger, apple juice, and bubble gum. This malt is not shy! Arriving punchy and aromatic, the taste is quite cask-dominated and slightly spirity with hints of walnuts. Bitter chocolate dominates the simple finish. Oktoberfest with Bavarian whisky? Why not. RATING: 3.2/5.0 stars ≙ 81 pts → AVERAGE [+]

The medium gold color suggests a typical American oak cask influence, but the long legs after swirling indicate a less rich character for the whisky. The aroma is slightly warming and a little reserved, offering sweet notes of vanilla and caramel cake. The mouthfeel is spirited and has a smooth texture. The palate is quite nutty, slightly sweet, with subtle oak notes in the background. The finish is rather muted, presenting a slight flavor of citrus and toasted nuts. Overall assessment: It performs quite well for a 3-year-old German malt whisky.

All the bitter flavors hit at once, very much like German bitters. It's quite malty and almost sour. It opens up nicely but still smells like a stale beer. Sweet and acidic at the beginning, followed by a wave of oak and spice. It seems all over the place but improves as you drink it. It still reminds me of burping after vomiting a bit. Don't take my word for it. I don't like Glenfarclas or most malty beers, and this has the aroma that appeals to that crowd. Honestly, it's not bad but it's not my preference. I don't care for the salty sweetness. Purchased a single shot, 0.051 ml, 43% alcohol.

Very enjoyable! Update: It's still very good, but a little too floral and astringent for my preference. It remains fantastic, though. It reminds me of a blend of Irish whiskey and bourbon, leaning more towards the Irish whiskey character. Still an excellent sipper! 7/10 Original review: Pleasant caramel notes, sweet without being excessive, and a lovely floral hint. 9/10 Second best I've had so far!