Firkin Rare: Ledaig 2008 Custom Marsala Cask 48.9%
Although an independent bottler, Firkin Whiskies approach is a little more left field and owes much to the experimental nature of founder, Mike Collings.
Their approach involves taking a whisky of around 10 years old and giving it a second maturation in a custom 'double oak cask', seasoned with a fortified wine specifically chosen to match the spirit.
From the Top Whiskies website:
The Tobermory distillery produce two kinds of whiskies, unpeated under their Tobermory label, and peated under the Ledaig label. Firkin Whisky Co paired this Ledaig 2008 with marsala wine in one of their specially made double wood casks. The result is a unique and satisfying whisky. Sweet glorious bonfire smoke. A unique and awesome dram under the Firkin Rare label.
Appearance: Amber gold, swirling forms a thick line which beads slowly before gradually falling as thick, viscous legs.
Nose: Sweet smoke, softer than expected, intertwined with sweet tropical fruit notes, barbecued pork with a honey and mild chilli marinade.
Palate: The palate follows a similar pattern to the nose, with smoked meats, honey glazed apricots, peaches and pineapple cooked over an open fire.
Finish: The smoke gradually dissipates to leave sweet honey-glazed ham and pineapple to linger on the palate.Summary: The Marsala cask brings sweet, tropical fruit notes that marry perfectly with the signature ashy smoke and the meatiness of the Ledaig spirit, creating a beautiful balance. You often find Ledaig whiskies also have industrial notes of burnt rubber and engine oil, but this is remarkably clean.
This is bottled at 48.9%, however there is no noticeable alcohol burn, instead there is a lovely oiliness which coats the palate. All of which makes this an incredibly easy whisky to sit back and just mellow out to. It’s also one of those dangerous whiskies where the level in the bottles drops a lot faster than you realise. This was my first bottle from Firkin Whisky and, if this is a typical example of what they can produce, it certainly won’t be my last.
If you would like more information on Firkin Whisky follow the link to the company website. Firkin whiskies are available at Top Whiskies, which can be reached by clicking on the image below.
