Nordic Whisky #263 - Kjellermesterens Labprøve 1 - Norsk Maltwhisky

Kjellermesterens Labprøve 1 - Norsk Maltwhisky, NAS, 48.9 %

This is the first release in the new experimental series Kjellermesterens Labprøve (“the cellar master’s lab tests”) from Det Norske Brenneri, Norway.

The Kjellermesterens Labprøve 1 - Norsk Maltwhisky is a single malt that was initially matured in American oak cask (225 litre) and Sauternes wine cask (225 litre) and then finished for a period in a 30 litre ex-Cognac cask. The size of the finishing cask limits this release to only 60 bottles (50 cl).

I believe this is the first release from Det Norske Brenneri where part of the component whiskies that went into the vatting was also distilled by their Master Blender Jon Bertelsen.

The Kjellermesterens Labprøve 1 - Norsk Maltwhisky will be available to buy in Norway tomorrow at NOK 1000 (12313902).

Nose: Barley and sherry notes, Dried fruits, dark chocolate. A bit shy at first, but with time it opens up more, and reveals more complexity. I now also find cinnamon, nutmeg, cut grass, leather, apples and mild citrus.

Taste: Medium to full body. Spicy upfront, pepper and cinnamon. Nuts, caramel and green herbs. Increasingly fruity.

Finish: Medium long finish. The spiciness is toned down, and the apple notes become more juicy and fresh.

Comment: A fun, fruity and fresh dram!

Score 86/100

Sláinte!
- Thomas