Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique Single Cask Strength

** Disclaimer: This review is what I would consider a “Quick Hit”- meaning I won’t have my usual in-depth notes that I usually like to take. The reason: this sample was poured at Whiskyfest DC on 4/17/18. All of these reviews will not be scored and I am actively looking to try them again at some point to do them more justice. Down to the best 2 whiskies I experienced at the festival. It’s between this and the HP The Dark 17yo. This one was so different than anything else we tasted that night. It was rich and powerful with a heavy dose of grapes and raisin sweetness. There was an interesting way the oak cask presented itself here as well. It came across as dry, because of the near 60% ABV, and it felt as though it dried/evaporated off the tongue at one minute, only to leave your mouth watering. It was insane. The sweetness lingered on as well. I actually went back to the Kavalan table 3 times to re-sample this one. The entire sipping experience is 5 stars, while the flavor profile might not be as dynamic as the HP Dark. That’s the only reason it wasn’t my Best In Show. I’ve found a bottle online here in the states for $230 and I think I gotta bite. I need more of this one. Highly recommended. Cheers.

Review #10 of 12 from DC Whiskyfest 2018. I was only able to do 12 because I came down with something that afternoon that really messed with my head and stomach. I should have just stayed in the hotel room but I didn’t pay $350 for VIP tickets to sample my pillow! No scores for anything sampled as I don’t think it would be fair. Of all the whiskies I’ve ever tried that had raisins in the profile, this one was the most raisin-y. Straight up raisins out of the box and then dipped in syrup and motor oil. Yes you read that right, motor oil, and it was fantastic. Very in your face kind of nose. Raisins and a sweet vermouth type of note on the palate. Wonderful. This was a very close #2 on the night next to HP The Dark. Another 4.5-5 Star dram.

Tropical fruits, caramel sweet, deep flavour, @backyard JR, Taipei

Cask W120607074. Whaaa?? This isn't a bourbon?

Red grapes and raspberries on the nose. Brown sugar to start

dark berries, vanilla caramel, very smooth taste and finish rich and full of flavour. don't feel like it needs to be watered down. 2nd best whisky I've had

Sweet, chocolate, full and rich. Complex and punches you in the face with flavor.