Kavalan Classic Single Malt

I didn't enjoy it, I had waited a year to try this, but it was spicy, overly dry, herby and a miserably short finish. The sweet oiliness from the heat and the coast of the distillery and the sherry cask doesn't mix with the dry, lemony spice from the bourbon and new American oak cask just doesn't work for me. Then I found the amazing Kavalan Port Cask and I finally understood why Kavalan is so popular.

If I had to compare this to a wine, it would be like an aged chardonnay - buttery, oaky notes of vanilla and spice, plus tropical fruit and honey roasted nuts both on the nose and palate. It's a good dram, competing for me with the Ex-Bourbon Cask and Concertmaster (port cask) for top honors.

From the award-winning distillery in Taiwan, Kavalan Single Malt is their entry-level bottling. Being matured in six different cask types, the nose is reminiscent of a quality blended Scotch. Very fruity with ripe oranges, mango and pineapple at first, the aroma turns more floral and honeyed upon adding a little water. Werther's Original drops, maple syrup and measured oak influence characterize the rather simple taste of this young malt. The finish is quick, chocolaty and slightly bitter. An interesting but very 'engineered' whisky with a hefty price tag. RATING: 3.2/5.0 stars ≙ 81 pts → AVERAGE [+]

A slow sipper. Pleasant enough but lacks a bit of depth