Lark Small Cask no age (43%abv)

This small barrel ageing from Lark uses the increased surface area of the small cask compared to the smaller volume of whisky to give a more mature and mellow profile to this young (no age statement) whiskey.  Initial plum and Christmas pudding notes on the nose lead to sweet and pleasurable mouth with a nice creamy/nutty smoothness. “Quaffable”. Score: 6.75

Redbreast 12yo (40% abv)

This ‘single pot still’ whiskey from Cork means that there was probably some unmalted barley used in the mash and  it was distilled 3 times (once more than most single malts). The nose has plenty of spice and some dried citrus notes. The taste is more spice and citrus but sweeter, maybe a little sherry, with a creamy oats feel and a long and soothing if slightly bitter tail. Score: 6.3

Penderyn 12 yo Madeira Finish (46%abv)

Brought to us by a welsh guest from Wales’s only distillery this whisky also included the toast “Iechyd da!”,  phonetically ‘yekhid dah’ (Good Health).

Initially quite earthy and savory the Madeira cask has given it a hint of raisins and minced fruit. A slight hint of green olives for some. The abv was initially a challenge but it did settle down behind the fruit characteristics and sweetness given time to open up. Score: 7.4

Glenrothes Select Reserve no age (43%abv)

Classic Scottish orange, heather and sherry on the nose. The taste is more of the same with a nice warming mouthfeel an middling length. Well made but with without challenge or finesse. Score: 7.2

My apologies for the lateness of these notes.

Next meeting will be Wednesday the 25th Feb 6.30 pm at Tank bar and dining, 32 Turbot St, Brisbane

Slainte,
Matt