Nordic Whisky #278 - Myken Swedish Oak 2020

Myken Swedish Oak 2020, 3 YO, 47 %

This is the first release exclusively for the Swedish market from Norwegian distillery Myken. It was released on April 15 and the 330 bottles sold out within a few hours.

The Myken Swedish Oak 2020 has been fully matured in 4 small 40 litre 2nd fill Swedish oak casks. This is a medium peated whisky, as one of the four casks held Myken peated whisky. The resulting peat level (in the malt) is approximately 9 ppm. In fact the four casks started life maturing what would become the Myken Extra Virgin Swede 2020 (review coming asap) for the Norwegian market.

Well, the Myken Swedish Oak 2020 is sold out. That’s the way it goes with most Nordic whisky that is limited in quantity. I for one think that is a very healthy sign. So, keep it coming!

Nose: Fairly closed up at first. I pick up a mild oakiness, but not much more. Adding time.. The sweet notes of Swedish oak announce their presence, but gently - not with a bang. Thankful for small mercies, I guess. Mild spices slowly appear, mixed with assorted orchard fruits. Orange zest and other earthy (?) citrus notes. It is balanced and refined. Have they cracked the code of Swedish Oak? Is it a 2nd fill? Must be. This is working very well!

Taste: Medium body and sweetness. The sweetness is fruity, and well balanced with assorted spices. Peppery honey with an herbal touch.

Finish: Medium to short finish. Less of the spices, but the fruitiness remains. Add to this a mild oakiness and memories of bitter fruits.

Comment: Swedish oak done right + rock solid craftsmanship.

Score 87/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas