Welcome to day 19. As we enter the last week of the calendar we have a fun one from Wales. This is first whisky to be distilled in Wales in over 100 years, and is a welcome addition to the world of single malt whisky. Matured in used American Oak casks, and enhanced in Madeira casks.
Background and products
It is distilled in the village of Penderyn, Rhondda Cynon Taf, in the Cynon Valley, from which the brand takes its name.
The company was launched in 2000 as the Welsh Whisky Company. Whisky had been distilled in Wales for hundreds of years, but stopped in 1894. Penderyn became the first whisky to be manufactured in Wales for over a century when sales started in 2004. It remains the only whisky currently produced in Wales.
The Penderyn Distillery also produces non-Whisky products: Merlyn Cream Liqueur, Five Vodka and Brecon Gin.Brecon Gin was awarded “Gold Best in Class” at the International Wines & Spirits Competition in 2011.
Penderyn Distillery is situated in Brecon Beacons National Park and sells internationally to markets such as Taiwan, Australia and France.The company opened up a visitors centre in June 2008, with Prince Charles, Prince of Wales leading the proceedings. The visitors centre now sees more than 35,000 visitors per annum.
Tasting Notes
Nose: fuzzy peach,Lemon, chocolate,Citrus,cherries,nail polish,grapefruit pith,flora,hay, banana
Taste: Fuzzy peach, citrus,grapefruit,lemons,oatmeal, hay or straw,honey,butterscotch,mineral, lemon drop,custard
Finish: Plastic, Light quick finish, hint of oak