Spring Bay Bourbon Cask No. 27

I haven't had much opportunity for thorough whisky tastings recently, but I've been anticipating this series from Tasmania's Spring Bay Distillery for a long time. Spring Bay was founded in 2015 using exclusively Tasmanian barley and rainwater. The distillery's coastal setting is said to impart a sweet salinity to the rainwater. This pour is from an ex-Makers Mark bourbon cask (#137). I have no idea about the cask's consistency, but without an official record, I'm documenting this here to prevent inaccurate reviews. Nose: A soft and creamy vanilla crème brûlée, coconut, and a slightly vegetal or herbal grittiness. The aroma seems quite young with a noticeable alcohol presence. Time in the glass does not significantly alter it. Palate: Surprisingly rich and full-bodied with a spicy alcohol upfront. Bright and sweet, with toffee, abundant barley sugar malt, pencil shavings, and a grilled fruit compote of peaches, coconut, and caramel. This is young, but it balances sweet and savory elements effectively with a complex texture derived from creaminess and tannins. Importantly, a distinct salty note compensates for any youthful sharpness. Finish: Long. Salted caramel, spice, oaky tannins. A strong debut from the eastern Tassie distillery. A solid spirit character, but perhaps excessive barrel tannin. The salty component here, if present in their other expressions, carries a significant risk of becoming habit-forming (and costly!) Starting with a bright and sweet impression, the flavors build across the palate to a rich, clean climax, culminating in a big, warm, comforting sensation. Whisky tasting #233 [Pictured with a large piece of Mowbowra Conglomerate from Exmouth, Western Australia. This rock is composed of limestone and coral fragments formed as foreshore beach deposits when interglacial river flows crossed exposed limestone terraces 240,000-170,000 years ago]. Spring Bay scores: Bourbon Cask: 3.5/5

Wonderful! Honey and spices are the primary tastes - a moderate level of peat, good strength, and a slight fresh green herb flavor.

Consistent, lasting flavor with notes of coconut and vanilla.