Waterford Biodynamic Luna 1.1

Waterford Tasting, The Oak Barrel, Sydney, November 27th 2023, Whisky #3 My observations on this whisky from the tasting event are nearly the same as the notes I made at the Sydney Whisky Show earlier in the year (see below), so I will not repeat them. However, I felt that when tasted alongside a broader selection of Waterford whiskies, this one deserved a slightly higher score than I initially gave, so I am raising it by one point. "Very Good": 85/100 (4 stars) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sydney Whisky Show May 20th 2023. Whisky #25 Nose: Freshly baked pear tart, lemon, pineapple, cottage cheese. Later, faint white wine aromas and a scent like white bread rolls that are baking but not quite done emerge. Palate: Honey, orange water, baked pear and apple with cinnamon and clove. White bread dipped in salted sunflower oil. The texture is substantial, rich, and oily, which works well with its generally bright but mellow flavors. It's slightly reminiscent of Irish pot-still whiskey, but more refined. Finish: Medium: Cereals, orchard fruit, chocolate, and a dusting of powdered ginger, clove, and cinnamon. A decent whisky that resembles another expression, but I think this one is a bit more engaging and complete. “Good”: 84/100 (3.75 stars)

While sampling from my collection, I randomly selected this. It's noted as the first biodynamic whiskey, made with sustainably harvested barley using biodynamic methods. My understanding of this process is limited, and frankly, its impact on the larger environmental picture is negligible. However, it certainly garners publicity and bragging rights. But what truly matters is the taste. While general reviews place it in the average B/B- range, I personally find it closer to a B+. The nose is unremarkable, offering light green apple and grape skin notes. However, the palate comes alive with pineapple, lemon, and an agave flavor reminiscent of tequila. Among the few early releases of this brand I've tried, this is my favorite due to its clean, crisp quality that makes it refreshing. I believe it will be even better with more aging. It's not for everyone; that crisp, agave-like quality might not appeal to all. Therefore, I suggest trying a sample first. My $6 sample was well worth the experiment.

Nose: There's a lot going on here. The distillery's own notes provide an extensive list, and for once, it's not an exaggeration. It's like eating a dark chocolate chip while sitting in a wildflower meadow between a hay field and a plum orchard. It's hard for my brain to track it all. Palate: What's interesting about the palate is that all the notes on the nose are present, but muted by a surprising ginger-cinnamon spiciness. It's very spicy, but not unpleasantly so. Finish: The palate fades pretty quickly, but repeated tastings bring out some barrel char. Summary: This is a young whiskey at three years, but it's possible that the youth lets all of the complexity shine through - and this is surprisingly one of the most complex whiskies I've had. I do wonder how this would develop with age, though. If I were to dock this whiskey a star for youth, I'd have to give it right back for its unique character and the sustainable way it was produced. If you aren't deterred by the price tag, then I'd recommend searching this one out. It's worth supporting a distillery that's bringing something special to Irish whiskey.

Similar to other Waterford whiskies we’ve reviewed, there are similarities, but vast differences as well. In this new expression, there is a definite terroir and rustic edge that belies the sources of its grains and water. The malt is more chewy and has a darker character, with notes of bitter cocoa, burnt caramel, and toasted brown bread. The overall effect is chewy with noticeable body. The flavor is enhanced by the higher proof and holds up well under a splash of branchwater or a large single cube of ice. What is perhaps the most remarkable is the variety of casks used in the blend. These also bring out a lot in terms of personality. You can taste the trees, as it were. Very expressive and self-assured. We applaud Waterford for exploring new territory with their whiskies, and look forward to more of their amazing portfolio.

Lots of freshness on the nose and palate. This Irish Single Malt Whiskey is surprising. The barley and vanilla are subtly present, accompanied by spices and gourmand notes of orange and chocolate. Precise, fresh, and astonishing, this biodynamic whiskey!

Initial impression: Grappa and bread, then raisins. It's packed with aromas and is powerful, but not my preference.