Swift Single Malt Texas Whiskey Sauternes Cask

This certainly (and unexpectedly) tastes much more like traditional scotch than the regular Swift does, and I'm unsure if that's a positive. The orange notes are still present, but they are now more concealed behind a rich, barley flavor that includes a more muted wood character and some subtle earthy tones, along with cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. This resembles the standard Glenlivet 12 even more than the regular Swift does, making me question its higher price. It's amusing because the intense orange flavor in regular Swift gives it a taste quite similar to sauternes... Could the batches have been mislabeled? It's somewhat bland, but there are no off-flavors, so this is a quite good drink. There's a little more complexity here than in Bushmill's Black Bush. The yeast and orange flavors are cleaner and more refreshing than in Black Bush, and the overall flavor is cleaner. The alcohol is noticeable but doesn't overpower. The best flavors of Bushmill's Black Bush are superior, directly mimicking those of Bushmill's 21, but the undesirable flavors dominate the finish, leaving a lasting impression that it's inferior to Swift Sauternes. Despite the excellent flavors in Black Bush, the depth of Swift Sauternes is clearly better. This possesses more richness and woodiness than the regular Swift, but despite the great new flavors, it lacks the same depth. It's good and definitely drinkable, but not at all masterful. This certainly has the richness expected of Sauternes, although the alcohol and whiskey wood do intrude. There's no doubt, however, that this is the Sauternes whiskey. It tastes a bit too much like Bastille, but it is somewhat superior. The flavor is rich for an American Single Malt, but mild compared to a standard Scotch or Irish whiskey. The flavors are good but require more development. There's some nice wood backing, but it doesn't dominate. This hint of orange is pleasant, but more depth would be welcome.

For an American single malt, I award it a 4.5, excellent! On the global stage, Swift demonstrates potential to become a world-class single malt producer. The whisky is immature, and I eagerly anticipate expressions around 10 years old; I'm confident I'll rate them a 4.5. Continue the excellent work!

Fruity aroma. Quite sweet, reminiscent of a Glenrothes Bourbon Cask Reserve or a Glenfiddich.