Thomson Manuka Smoke "Progress Report"

Extremely unique. Nose is toothpaste, menthol and spearmint. Flavor is the same, with a charred smoked (not peated) vibe to it with a light bitterness like mesquite. One of the most unique whiskies ive tried.

I met Mathew Thomson in 2019 and was intrigued by his innovative mindset and dedication to create an authentic New Zealand whisky. Manuka wood smoke is both singular and hard to describe, but it works. On the nose, heather honey, bay leaf and incense sticks mix with lime, rubber and distant campfire notes. Herbal-fresh and effervescent, the taste develops with menthol, grapefruit and well-integrated smoke. Licorice, peppermint tea and a touch of quality oak linger in the savory finish. This malt does not imitate Scotch, and that's refreshing to see! RATING: 3.7/5.0 stars ≙ 85 pts → ABOVE AVERAGE [+]