Virginia Distillery Co. Rum Cask Finished Virginia-Highland Whisky

One day, when I retire, a goal of mine is to drive across this nation and visit every major distillery in each state. But, until that time comes, I’ll have to settle for trying samples from various ones as I find them. A friend sent this one to me. Virginia isn’t a major player in the distilling scene like Colorado, New York, or California, and they’re probably more known for their craft beer than whiskey. But I’m glad to see this one, although technically they’ve been sourcing from Scotland while they produce and age theirs, I think. This particular one is a limited version, age unknown (but I’m guessing young), with an 8-12 month rum cask finish. I’ve not had many rum cask finishes, but the ones I did have, I wasn’t a fan (Balvenie and Glenfiddich come to mind). Personally, I found the rum casks overly sweet or not doing much to the base spirit. I’m finding the similar situation here: Nose is a bit sharp. You can tell it’s young and could benefit from more time in the barrel. Taste...not getting rum. More of a bready malty taste, some sharpness towards the end. Youth is so evident in this...thinking something else besides rum would’ve helped cover the age (sherry? Red wine?). Interesting, but if you like rum finishes (I don’t personally), try the Balvenie Caribbean cask instead. It comes with an age statement (14yr), and similar price point ($60).

I found a special cask selection of Virginia Distillery Company's Rum Cask Finish at a small (though very reputable) Redstone Liquors in Andover MA. I decided to purchase it even though I couldn't find any reviews online. Similar to other releases in VDC's Virginia-Highland series, this is a blend of malt whisky made by VDC in Virginia and malt whisky from the Scottish Highlands. It is bottled at 46% ABV. The aroma, while not particularly intense, offers notes of cereal, a hint of citrus and lemon, and a general sweetness reminiscent of powdered sugar. The palate initially feels rather watery (unexpected for 46% ABV) before vegetal and grassy notes, some citrus, and woody spices emerge. The finish is extended, featuring grapefruit, oak, and a gradual increase in alcohol strength. The rum cask finishing contributes sweetness to the aroma, but is mostly absent from the palate. Unfortunately, what remains is a Highland-style malt that isn't among the best I've encountered. Ultimately, it's somewhat dry and not very sweet, which is not what I prefer in a rum cask finished whisky. I admire VDC's commitment to American malt whisky, so I genuinely wanted to enjoy this drink (also because I paid sixty dollars for it). However, if you are seeking a rum-finished single malt, I would suggest the Balvenie Caribbean Cask over the VDC. If you are generally interested in VDC, I would recommend trying their port cask finished whisky instead.

Sharpness, artificial leather, and heat.