Kavalan Distillery Reserve Peaty Cask Single Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky

This is Kavalan’s ambitious first foray into the world of peat. It stands as a pivotal release in their exclusive Distillery Reserve series. This single cask expression uses unpeated spirit matured in former peaty whisky casks. The subtropical Taiwanese climate works its accelerated magic, extracting a unique balance from the wood. You get the unmistakable sweetness and tropical fruit signature of Kavalan, but it’s beautifully woven with a gentle smoke. This is not a harsh, medicinal blast of peat. Instead, the smoke functions as a crucial seasoning agent. It provides an earthy, rich backdrop that anchors the bright, lively fruit notes. It's a surprising, highly awarded dram for connoisseurs who want something truly complex and different. The small 300ml bottle makes it a fantastic, rare collector’s piece.

Nose: Aromas of baked orange and spiced honey lead the way, followed by a light, sweet, woody smoke and fragrant florals.

Palate: The mouthfeel is thick and unctuous, washing the tongue with flavors of caramel toffee, zesty grapefruit, and warm cinnamon.

Finish: A warming, elegant conclusion that lingers with a gentle earthy peat, dark chocolate, and a final hint of red chili spice.

The subtle smokiness and rich caramel notes make this a perfect partner for smoked or cured foods. Try pairing it with smoked duck breast or savory teriyaki jerky. Its spicy warmth cuts through richness, so it's a great accompaniment to a hearty beef stew. For dessert, the peaty spice is a crucial match for bread pudding topped with spiced peaches.