Andy’s Review: SMWS Tasting in Wellington
Sep 22nd, 2009 | By Administrator | Category: Featured Articles, Tasting Notes
Last Wednesday I along with Michael had the privilege to attend the very first Scotch Malt Whisky Society tasting to be held in New Zealand. The tasting was held in Wellington and had a grand range of whiskies. It started with a 21yo Glenlivet 52.7% lovely and sweet, but balanced whisky. This was followed with a very good 9yo Arran 56.5% lovely whisky and came somewhat of a surprise to me, best Arran I have tasted. Next came a 25yo Nikka Yoichi 59.9% a very richly flavoured whisky had a good finish, then a very sweet 9yo Craigellachie 58.5% creamy, reminded me of McCowens Highland Cream Toffee, yum. The last whisky was the pick for me and those who know me would not be surprised at it was a 10yo Ardbeg 56.3% WOW it was exactly like the new distillery bottling of the Ardbeg 10yo sweet wet bonfire on the nose, lovely smoky ash on the palate, great big finish with a sweet tang and length.
This was a great opportunity to taste whisky as I like it Single cask and Cask strength, the SMWS has promised to bring more tastings to New Zealand if you get the chance don’t miss it!
You can read more about the SMWS at www.smws.com.au
I heard about this tasting from Andy when he got back, and i’m still jealous! Looking forward to the next tasting, hopefully I’ll be allowed to go to it, for work purposes, of course.
-Stephen.