Dreaming-of-Islay
Westland American Oak American Single Malt
American Single Malt — Washington , USA
Reviewed
September 9, 2017 (edited December 2, 2018)
Westland is a lauded single malt made in Washington state and is one of the leading lights of the American single malt movement. I tend to be quite skeptical of these young, new whiskies, which often haven't had the luxury of aging long enough to develop rich flavors but then get graded on a curve by most reviewers. That being said, this is very promising. After a waft of furniture polish clears out and this dram opens up, apple, sherry, and malt produce a enticing, albeit uncomplicated, nose. Its characteristic flavors are apple and malt, with a little bit of rising heat after a few seconds in the mouth, which is where its youth (two years in the barrel) betrays itself. The finish is where this shines, starting with a brief, young oak note before transitioning to a deep, cherry chocolate cola note. It's one of the best finishes I've had in a whiskey aged 10 years or less, better than many scotches. I'm shocked this is aged in new charred oak barrels, with no sherry involvement. I also love the 46% ABV and dark, rich, caramel color. It's simple, but I'd recommend it, and can only imagine it's going to get better with age. The Kilchoman of the Pacific Northwest.
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