Kavalan Native Species Solist Vinho Barrique Cask Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky 700mL

Comes with a 50ml Kavalan 'Wine Oak' Sample

This is a limited release gift set of your favourite single malt whisky celebrating the native species of Taiwan. The packaging and bottle label are graced with The Formosan Leopard Cat. The Formosan Leopard Cathas cloud-like markings on its fur and is distinctive for its tail, which is shorter than that of other leopard cats.

It is depicted with the Taiwan Barbet, three butterflies with auspicious symbolism, the Butterfly Orchid representing happiness and success, and the Tree Peony, a symbol of wealth.

The Kavalan Solist series is the Taiwanese distiller's cask-strength line aged in various ex-wine casks. In this instance the various casks used to age the single malt whisky once held red and white wines aged in American oak.

Tasting Notes:

Colour: Deep autumn gold.

Nose: A rich fusion of vanilla and caramelised sugars with dark chocolate on top. Ripe melon and mango together with kiwi and a delicate blend of citrus fruits burst. Pepper is also present in the background waiting to be noticed. This bouquet is simply a sensational feast to your olfactory organ…

Palate: Caramel, marzipan, coffee-vanilla, fudge, rich, creamy, dried black fruits. Integrated and surprisingly light. Element of sandalwood. Starts creamy, waters out, almost disappears before rubbing hot brown sugar into the oesophagus. Tiny bitter trace.

"While extremely light on the palate, the flavours are very deep and complex. The grapey-ness of the wine influence really comes through, mixed with the cereal notes of the malted barley and the vanilla from the oak itself. The finish reminds a bit of a root-beer-flavored Life Saver candy, which makes it a fun sip. A drop of water makes the hot finish a bit more creamy." - Amanda Schuster, Distiller