Kavalan Classic Single Malt is the benchmark whisky produced in Taiwan. This blend comes from several casks: ex-bourbon, sherry, wine and refilled casks.
Tasting notes from Thomas
The nose is clearly fruity. Apricots and a hint of mango are coated with honey (or even royal jelly), creating a bright sweetness. A hint of pear, vanilla and cocoa powder are then combined with flowers (orchids, lilies). Finally, a hint of cinnamon and sawdust complete the contours of this rather rounded nose.
The texture, on the palate, is rather dense for 40%. Sufficient but slightly restrained power. Notes of mango and passion fruit come through fleetingly, before lightly toasted wood, vanilla and cinnamon become more prominent. The whole is nimbed with honey and flowers (lily), but the drier aspect (spices, wood) is never really absent from the proceedings. There's also an underlying freshness, very close to mint and fern.
The finish is rather short but retains its exotic fruity component. It then switches to citrus and light woody notes. Freshness is much reduced.
"A good introduction to Kavalan, a blend of fruity opulence andmarkedwoodiness... "
