Kavalan Bourbon Cask Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)

This is the lower ABV version of "Solist", the cask strength ex Bourbon matured whisky produced by Kavalan.

Tasting note: Bright gold. Muted marshmallow and bubblegum in the opening whiffs. Slowly builds with added vanilla and stone fruits continuing through to a initially lean, then well rounded fruity/malty mid palate featuring stewed pear and sweet spices. Lovely vibrancy and balance with firm, drying oak closing and the vanilla / fresh orchard fruitiness lingering. Style wise akin to bottlings of Aberfedly or Glen Grant when the wood selection is at its best. 46% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... Surprise, surprise. This is like the school's best pitcher, who then steps onto the football team and throws for a game-winning touchdown. This is a whole new side to Kavalan. Remember Faith No More doing “Easy”? Having out-sherried and out-bourboned us with kickass rock-n-roll whisky, Kavalan goes for gentle and croony, with vanilla and honey. The coup de grace? Apple pie and cream morph into licorice and menthol. Exquisite.
93 points - whiskyadvocate.com (Summer 2013) Reviewed by: Dominic Roskrow