Koval Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey (500ml)

Founders of Koval (est.2008), Robert and Sonat Birnecker, gave up academic careers to bring the distilling traditions of Robert's Austrian grandfather to America. Five organically grown grains (Rye, Oat, Wheat, Millet, and Spelt) are harvested locally for distillation into whiskies. These unfiltered single cask offerings are classified both organic and kosher. Koval's Bourbon has the requisite mash bill of at least 51% corn, but instead of the usual rye or wheat supplement, they have included one of the main cereals of Asia and Africa. Millet is a gluten-free ancient sustenance grain, and like corn, has a history of working in the spirits industry, albeit in Nepal, where it has long been celebrated as a libation of choice.

Tasting notes: [BARREL 473 tasted] The deep gold / brassy colour is clear and bright. Love this nose with its caraway infused dark rye and potpourri-like scents over a sweeter cocoa/vanilla oak base. Fresh delivery offers muted vanilla bean, dried herb and new sawn American oak in the finale, closing dry yet prolonged with pencil shavings and cocoa mingling in the fade. Departs from mainstream Bourbon styles but in an alluring way. 47% Alc./Vol.

Previous batch tasted: Pure pale gold colour is a pleasure to behold. Excites the olfactory sense with its ultra pure, clean wood, honeycomb and vanilla opening bouquet. Aeration draws out milk chocolate. Third inspection detects hints of vinyl before the sweet theme returns. In the mouth, barley sugar and vanilla are augmented by a controlled spicy surge. Shows good length, ending oaky with hints of cocoa into the fade. Atypical yet very attractive. 91 points 47% Alc./Vol.