This Taiwanese Kavalan whisky is aged in ex-bourbon casks.
Tasting notes from Thomas
The nose appears complex and full-bodied. Citrus fruits (yuzu, tangerine) and exotic fruits (banana, coconut, pineapple, guava) are first on the nose, indicating an eminently fruity character. Then, fresh cream, basil, vanilla and nutmeg add depth. Finally, a touch of wood, licorice and a hint of black pepper complete the profile.
Aeration brings out the dry wood and green pepper. However, the exoticism is still there, with banana adding a lot of fat. Gradually, citrus fruits take over (with tangerine), while flowers appear (orange blossom, magnolia). In the end, roundness prevails.
The palate has a smooth texture and perfectly calibrated amplitude. There's a lovely balance. The sweetness of candied citrus mingles with exoticism (pineapple, guava) to meet wood and spice (clove, black pepper, cardamom). A few flowers (carnations) then telescope wood, white chocolate, vanilla and citrus.
The finish is fresher, despite the restrained presence of wood. At this point, apricot, mango, vanilla, mandarin and orange can be detected. A spicy (cardamom, pepper) and slightly woody impression remains amidst the exotic fruits.
" A whisky that plays on the exuberance of its fruity heart as much as on its woody and spicy markers..."
