Style: Sweet and Spicy
Nose:
Fragrant, fresh berries opening, followed by a firm layer of stewed tropical and citrus fruits, red grapes notes nicely laced within it. A rather refreshing tartness balances the aroma. Orange marmalade, floral jam spreading over creme brûlée, maraschino cherry garnished on top. Mellow grassy and copper tone at the back. Nice.
Palate:
Powerful spice unloading onto the palate, chilli flakes, peppermint and nutmeg dusting over it. Fruity acid drops flowing over a milky brush. More orange marmalade, touches of dried pink rose petals scattered on green grass patches, multiple levels of sweetness at play… Very nice. The tone makes a creamy transition, we have smooth vanilla milk, hazelnut chocolate with a touch of raisins at the back.
Finish:
More jammy orange lingers, fruity overtone underlining icy peppermint hue, red grapes and floral notes blossoms sporadically. Not too long, but pretty nice.
Thoughts:
To me this single cask (not sure if it is true for all Kavalan Vinhos) is about the balance between the fruitiness and creaminess of the spirit, and that has stemmed multiple facets of sweetness in which each element is expressing rather neatly, I like that a lot. Sure, Kavalan Solist can be rather spicy but as a regular cask strength drinker that’s no problem for me… Also in return the magnitude of flavours delivered in such a unique layout is highly rewarding. Good dram.
☆ [Recommended]
[57.8% • 2017 Bottled • 2012 Distilled • Original Bottling • Single Cask • No Age Statement • Non Coloured • Non Chill Filtered • Cask Number:W121213065A • Bottle Number: 059 of 211 • Aged 4 Years]
-Esmond
WhiskNick 