Silver Medal at Malt Maniacs Awards 2020

A good example of how the usually malty, light and fragrant Westport can be transformed into a muscular and peppery whisky, thanks to the use of a fine sherry cask. At the nose it’s nutty, with a dry winey note and slightly sour peaches, even a bit austere. Its strength and spicy character are not fully revealed, though, until the first sip… The initial taste of sultana raisins, dried figs and nuts, with a touch of honey too, is quickly overwhelmed by a very peppery and winey impression. Power and spices continue to build up with no intention to stop! It’s a wonderfully traditional refill sherry profile, fruity but tight, nutty and extremely dry. The aftertaste sees the intensity and the peppery character still growing, for a truly explosive ending.