Cardrona Distillery Growing Wings Solera Cask Strength Single Malt New Zealand Whisky (375ml)

A follow up to the 2019 Just Hatched inaugural release, Growing Wings spent five years, one day in ex-Oloroso Sherry butts and ex-bourbon barrels, marking the five-year anniversary of the first spirit laid down at Cardrona. It's very good whisky on its way to becoming great whisky, defined by a creamy nose feel that includes dried fruits and sweet roasted nuts, countered by hints of white pepper and lemon zest. The palate resonates in similar fashion; nicely weighted with vanilla, honey and cream sponge cake on entry followed by a thrust of spice and delicate astringency, the sugars rebounding late. Adding water accents a balsa wood and spice character, but it isn't necessary - this is approachable uncut and rounds out further after air contact. Founded by former farmer, Desiree Reid following two years of research and tutelage from the likes of influential US Master Distiller, Dave Pickerell, Cardrona continue to produce just a barrel a day. Dunedin born and bred Sarah Elsom has now taken on the role of Master Distiller. 64.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Other reviews... This is a quite extraordinary whisky for a distillery so new...whichever part of the world you may find it. 95.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024