The English Whisky Co. Small Batch Release 'Smokey Oak'

The English Whisky Co. Small Batch Release 'Smokey Oak': A Deep Dive Tasting Experience

Hailing from The English Whisky Co., the Small Batch Release 'Smokey Oak' is a single malt whisky that carves its own path. This limited-edition bottling, with only 1347 bottles ever produced, offers a unique flavour profile that marries smoky notes with surprising hints of citrus and spice. If you're looking for a whisky that challenges expectations and lingers on the palate, then this English dram is sure to satisfy.

Nose:

The first impression on the nose is a bold one. Rich, earthy peat smoke takes centre stage, reminiscent of a crackling bonfire on a crisp autumn evening. This smokiness is complemented by unexpected aromas. Zesty sherbet lemons emerge, adding a touch of brightness that cuts through the peat. Underlying these notes is a subtle hint of ginger snap biscuits, offering a hint of warm spice. The overall aroma is complex and inviting, drawing you in for a sip.

Palate:

The smoky character carries over from the nose onto the palate, coating the tongue with a pleasant warmth. The peat influence is noticeable but not overpowering, allowing other flavours to shine through. Hints of citrus peel emerge, mirroring the lemon detected on the nose. These citrus notes provide a refreshing counterpoint to the smoke, creating a dynamic interplay on the taste buds. As the whisky develops, a touch of sweetness appears, reminiscent of honey or vanilla. This sweetness is fleeting, however, giving way to a wave of peppery spice on the mid-palate. The ginger snap biscuit aroma translates onto the taste as well, adding a touch of complexity and warmth.

Finish:

The finish is where the 'Smokey Oak' truly excels. The smoky notes linger long after the last sip, slowly fading into a pleasant dryness. Hints of oak wood emerge towards the end, a subtle reminder of the whisky's maturation process. The citrus and spice notes from the earlier stages are also present, creating a lasting impression that is both warming and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions:

To fully appreciate the nuances of the Small Batch Release 'Smokey Oak,' consider enjoying it neat or on the rocks. This allows the complex flavour profile to develop on its own, without the addition of water or mixers masking the whisky's character.

• Neat: This is the purist's approach, allowing you to experience the whisky in its purest form. Pour a measure of the 'Smokey Oak' into a snifter glass and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the aromas to develop. Swirl the glass gently and take a sip, savouring the interplay of smoke, citrus, spice, and sweetness.
• On the Rocks: Adding a single large ice cube can help to open up the whisky's flavours and make it slightly more approachable. The ice will slowly melt, releasing a touch of water that will subtly alter the taste profile. As the ice melts, the whisky will become slightly more diluted, revealing new dimensions of flavour.

Food Pairing:

The 'Smokey Oak's' bold flavour profile makes it a great choice for pairing with food. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your tasting experience:

• Smoked Meats: The smoky character of the whisky complements smoked meats beautifully. Try pairing it with smoked salmon, grilled lamb chops, or even a hearty smoked cheese. The smokiness in both the food and the whisky will create a harmonious flavour combination.
• Sharp Cheeses: The citrus and spice notes in the whisky stand up well to sharp cheeses. Consider pairing it with a mature cheddar, a creamy goat cheese, or a blue cheese. The contrast between the sharp cheese and the smoky whisky will create an interesting interplay on the palate.
• Dark Chocolate: The sweetness and bitterness of dark chocolate can help to tame the smokiness of the whisky. Choose a chocolate with a high cocoa content, at least 70%, to ensure it can stand up to the whisky's boldness.

Conclusion:

The English Whisky Co. Small Batch Release 'Smokey Oak' is a unique and compelling whisky. Its limited-edition status and complex flavour profile make it a must-try for any whisky enthusiast. With its combination of smoke, citrus, spice, and sweetness, this English dram offers a truly memorable tasting experience. So, if you're looking for a whisky that breaks the mould and pushes boundaries, then be sure to seek out a bottle of the Small Batch Release 'Smokey Oak'.