Nordic Whisky #9 - Braunstein 13:2

Braunstein 13:2, 8 YO, 46 %

Braunstein 13:2

Another Nordic whisky on the block today, a Danish whisky this time. This is Braunstein 13:2, an 8 year old whisky released in the Autumn of 2013 (2013-09-19). I have previously reviewed another whisky from Braunstein in the Nordic Whisky review series.

Braunstein 13:2 is a peated whisky. It was initially matured for six years in an ex-bourbon barrel from Maker's Mark. Then it was finished for two years in an ex-rum cask from St. Croix. St. Croix is a former Danish colony, so there's a certain Danish link here.

This whisky is still available to buy at Braunstein's own online store Whiskydirect.dk at DKK 795.

Nose (22/25): Well-mannered peat greets the nose first, then I am met by a very interesting (in a good way!) and affirmative rum note. The rum influence is firmly placed in the driver's seat, with vanilla as the co-pilot, as we travel through a countryside of smoky clouds and groves of fruit trees.

Taste (22/25): Wow! Massive peat! The smoke is so thick you can cut it with a knife. At the same time it is a soft whisky with lovely mouth-feel. Citrus and vanilla. A rum cake with fruit cream and caramel sauce - a bit odd maybe, but quite tasty all the same.

Finish (22/25): Long and lingering. Primarily caramel, sweet and relatively mild. Licorice also makes an appearance, whilst the smoke is ever present.

Balance (22/25): Another fine product from Braunstein. Whisky Saga will have to make a field trip to visit this distillery soon.

Score (88/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas