[55.2% • Original Bottling • Bottled in 2015 • No Age Statement • General Release]
Nose:
Peppery on the nose with an oomph of tanned leather note. There is a buttery waffle note, pine wood shave that leads way to a roasted barley note that feels rathe enormous. Vegetal on the side with somewhat a gum tree note.
Palate & Finish:
Bright lemon zest and ripe peaches with a brush of saltiness from the oak. Japanese style shaved dried fish. A fluid juiciness alongside nutmeg infused maple syrup and spices coming in quite strong. Coconut chips and a minty note help mellow out the rather spicy nature towards the backend.
The malty nature remains robust long into the finish after the milk chocolate and stone fruits.
Thoughts:
I believe the 55.2% abv really brings out the malty nature of the spirit on this occasion, you don’t often come across a whisky crafted with the specific intention of celebrating barley these days. I feel like by sourcing local barley, Paul John has really found themselves a niche in this market.
✓ [Recommended if you like the style/ distillery]
– Nicholas
WhiskNick 