Nc’nean Huntress 2022 - 48%
Although it has long been understood that different yeast varieties will produce different flavours in the wash, conventional practices have been for many distilleries to remain with traditional varieties. This first release was an experiment in seeing how much impact adding a yeast variety used in the rum making industry would have when added to the Anchor and Fermentis varieties used as standard by the distillery.
The resultant spirit was then matured in 61% STR Red Wine casks and 39% ex-Bourbon casks.
Certified organic, non-chill filtered and natural colour. Limited run of 4447 bottles.
Tasting notes:
Appearance: Pale gold, forms a thick line which falls as thick, oily legs.
Nose: Tropical fruit, ripe banana, caramelised soft brown sugar.
Palate: Cinder toffee, vanilla, ripe banana, pineapple, mango, honey and ginger spice.
Finish: Cinder toffee and honey continue along with soft ginger warmth.
Summary: The results of this experiment in yeast variety are highly evident when compared to the core Organic bottling. The depth and complexity have significantly increased with the addition of the rum yeast, bringing more tropical fruit notes and a longer finish to the light, gentle Nc’nean spirit. Whilst the flavour notes are similar to a number of the rum cask finished malts I’ve tried, the twist of incorporating those notes earlier in the process is certainly interesting.
Priced at £85 it’s a gentle, easy drinking whisky, although for me a little too expensive. Quite rightly there is now a growing demand for whisky produced with a strong focus on sustainability, and Nc’nean should certainly be applauded for leading the charge. Whilst I can appreciate the costs incurred have to be balanced against the need to be profitable, I would hate to see this quiet revolution lose traction due to the pricing being too high for the intended market.
If you would like more information on this whisky, or the Nc’nean distillery, follow the link to the company website.
