This was the first of six samplings of the May outturn for the Scotch Malt Whisky Society ("SMWS") - a sprightly young Deanston, full of verge and punch! A gathering of about 30 people gathered at the Jack Rose Saloon in Washington DC to try and guess a blind tasting of the six drams.
Here are the official notes:
Immediately it was apparent that this was a firm, robustly malty and well-structured dram built around its base ingredients. Lots of naked, raw gristy barley, a seam of biscuity sweetness and touches of petrol and vapour rubs. Water added pollens, cigarette papers and menthol tobacco. A lovely cereal and medical balance. The initial palate was all on chalky medicines, limestone, gauze, mouthwash and crystallised ginger. Some waxy baking paper, brown bread and some green acidity providing freshness. Reduction unveils caraway, aniseed, toasted fennel and cough mixtures. Robust, fun and highly unusual highland whisky.
Interesting! I read these only after having had the whisky, which is always an interesting experience. Bottled at 60.8% ABV, after 9 years in a first-fill bourbon barrel, let's check it out:
Nose: Sour, dry, leathery Highland nose is immediately apparent. Malt, dust, apple/pear notes, butter, grass - the last two after some water is added. A little caramel, too. The nose has a cooling effect on the nose.
Mouthfeel: Medium in every way.
Palate: Salt, leather, malt, honey, alcohol burn, apples. With water, white gummi bears come out to play.
Finish: Dry - malt, oak tannins, hints of pepper and apple seeds.
Verdict: Nice - definitely young, but nice! As far as young, sprightly bottles go, this is pretty well behaved. Nothing too angular or off or crazy, just nice young Highland spirit. Does Deanston's reputation well. Worth checking out!
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