Three Ships 10 Year

First SA single malt I have had. Much better than expected. Slightly bitter aftertaste. Quite peaty.

Sweet peat, pipe tobacco and brown sugar on the nose. Smooth and creamy mouthful, and sweet tropical fruit on the palate. A touch of cinnamon spice for a medium-length finish. I'm really impressed with the smoothness and complexity of this whisky.

There's something really wonderful and welcoming about approaching your nose to a whisky glass and getting a first whiff of subtle peat. You add salted caramel, some lemon extract, and pow, your lips are in heaven. Then comes the shocker: THIS IS SOUTH AFRICAN?!?! Apparently so, and what an improvement from the younger 5-year-old. Start to finish, with its gentle oak and cinnamon aromas, this is fantastic whisky!

I bought a sample of a South African whisky for the first time because it was highly rated by Whisky Magazine and reasonably priced. Glad I did as it was an interesting discovery. Nose: Delicate heather at first. After some time in the glass I detected a creamy berry note akin to some long lost soda from my childhood, or perhaps Cherry Coke. Delightful! (2/3). Mouth: Very smooth, with a rich melting honey texture. (2/3). Finish: Short - a little disappointing that the honey doesn't stick around longer (1.5/3). Bonus: 0.5/1 for value. Overall: 6/10. A very nice whisky with broad appeal, good for newbies and connoisseurs alike. Not the most challenging of drams, just a good all round easy drinker. I'd be happy to own a bottle. (Master of Malt sample 2/18/17)