Description

Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique ‘Year Of The Snake’ Australian Exclusive Single Malt Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 57.8%           Age: No Age Statement           Country: Taiwan

Bottled Exclusively for Australia to Celebrate the Lunar New Year UYear Of The Snake.

Winner of the 2015 World Whisky Awards – Whisky of The Year

Vinho is fully matured in used American oak wine barrels that have been toasted and re-charred in a way that brings out fruity vanilla notes from the whisky and wood overlaid on a delicate background of complex fruitiness. The oak casks are made from American oak that has been seasoned in the open air for at least 24 months. The oak is slow grown that results in a greater release of flavours into the whisky. This reduces the astringent effect of tannins and releases more vanilla spiciness and hints of herbs such as dill and lemon grass. The result is softness and added complexity. The casks have (deliberately) been used to mature both red and white wines which eventually will contribute the background complex fruitiness to Kavalan Solist Vinho. After their use for wine maturation the casks are carefully shaved inside then gently toasted over an oak chip fire for a strictly controlled period of time and temperature. This converts wine residues into a complex mixture of fruit flavours including lime, berry fruits and peaches. Then the casks are charred for a short period of time to release lashings of flavours such as vanilla, ice cream and caramelised sugars.

As we welcome the Year of the Snake, we’re thrilled to unveil an exclusive bottling of Kavalan Vinho Barrique Single Malt Whisky, available only in Australia. We were honoured to be offered a selection of six exceptional casks from Kavalan, each with its own unique character. After careful consideration and numerous tastings, we chose the cask that truly stood out as an embodiment of the vibrant energy of the Year of the Snake.

This exquisite whisky entices the senses with an alluring bouquet of red fruits, tropical fruits, and summer berries. On the palate, it delights with a symphony of summer berries, fresh ripe dark fruits, and a hint of espresso. The finish is long and luxurious, reminiscent of fine Armagnac and red wine, interwoven with dark fruits and a touch of soft spice.

This limited-edition Kavalan Vinho Barrique Single Malt Whisky is a celebration of the Lunar New Year and a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship of Kavalan Distillery. We invite you to experience this rare gem and savour its unique flavours.

Visit our website to secure your bottle of this exceptional whisky.

The result is a more complex whisky than is possible than with whisky casks alone!

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: This Kavalan whisky presents a captivating array of aromas, starting with rich notes of plum and dried dark fruits, complemented by the luxurious sweetness of armagnac-soaked sultanas. A delicate candy floss sweetness adds a playful touch, while the fresh, pungent scents of red apples and pears bring a crisp vibrancy.

Early season cherries contribute a youthful sweetness, balanced by hints of red grapefruit and cranberry for a touch of tartness. Kavalan’s signature tropical fruit notes emerge, intertwining with the sweetness of ripe summer berries – raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. Finally, a subtle barley sweetness underpins the entire experience, adding a layer of complexity.

Palate: The whisky dances on the palate with a vibrant burst of summer berries – think cranberries and blackberries with a hint of red liquorice adding a playful twist. The fruit theme continues with notes of stewed red apples, bringing a comforting warmth.

A touch of espresso adds depth and a subtle bitterness, while a hint of fresh buttery pastry lends a delicate richness. Red grapes provide a juicy sweetness, balanced by the firm grip of chewy oak tannins. This whisky is a beautiful interplay of fruit, spice, and oak, creating a truly satisfying experience.

Finish: Leaves a lasting impression with a finish that’s both luscious and vibrant. Plums and figs mingle with an explosion of fresh red fruits, creating a juicy and mouthwatering sensation. A touch of the exotic emerges with hints of coconut and mango, adding a tropical nuance.

The sweetness of the fruit is balanced by a gentle warmth from soft spices and the elegant complexity of Armagnac. Lingering notes of dark fruits complete the experience, leaving a long and satisfying memory.

Awards

World’s Best Single Malt – World Whisky Awards 2015

Superior Gold Winner – Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition 2020

Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2020

Double Gold – International Spirits Challenge 2020

Platinum – San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019

Double Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019