Canadian Club Chronicles 44 Year

As mentioned in my CC Chronicles 43 tasting this was a very generous gift from my favourite friend @BradMacario. Very much looking forward to tasting this one in depth. It is a lovely golden amber colour with deliciously thick-looking legs. Nose: A classic Canadian whisky nose but cranked up to 11. Maple, vanilla, caramel, brown sugar... There is a touch of baking spices like nutmeg and a hint of over-ripe dark fruits, particularly plums. Palate: This is not nearly as sweet as the nose. There is a very brief touch of semi-sweet maple syrup, but more like the maple sap straight from the tree. Unlike the 43 this one has a pile of spice and tannins that almost immediately electrify the sides of the tongue. Black pepper introduces the grand finale. Finish: LONG! There is a strong tanniny feel that tingles on the back sides of the tongue for some time. There is a bitterness that lingers, especially on the back of the soft palate, which I love. I'm not sure but it seems there may be a deep red wine or port influence somewhere in this whisky. Overall, this is spectacular. The nose suggests sweetness and richness but the palate is a delicious antithesis to this preconception. I often find Canadian whisky too rich and sweet (maybe too polite like my Canadian counterparts) but this one is really bold and spicy. Thank you again to @BradMacario for this spectacular whisky!