Nordic Whisky #250 - Smögen Primör Revisited

Smögen Primör Revisited, 6 YO, 68.2 %

In 2013 Swedish distillery Smögen released their very first single malt whisky - the Smögen Primör (see my review). This was also my very first review of a Nordic whisky. It is therefore only fitting that my 250th review of Nordic whisky shall be of the Smögen Primör Revisited.

Primör Revisited has been matured in the very same casks that were emptied in 2013 on Primör’s release. It was distilled in the Summer of 2013, and bottled October 2019. The outturn was limited to 1616 bottles. The casks used were (now) 2nd fill French quarter casks #46-53/2013. These casks were filled at natural strength, which explains the rather heavy 68.2 % ABV on this 6 YO whisky.

The Smögen Primör Revisited sold out immediately, as every other Smögen release.

Nose: Powerful, for sure, but barely any alcohol sting. It is literally bursting with flavour, and I feel a little trepidation just thinking of taking the first sip. But first - more nosing. Smoky, sweet wood smoke, but not a lot. Vanilla and a light fruitiness. Carnation, nutmeg, white pepper and earthy cinnamon. With time also worn leather and sun-warmed sand.

Taste: Well now. That was not even half as scary as I thought it would be. Again powerful - and more than. But nothing I (or indeed most of you, I bet) cannot manage. It would certainly take a few drops of water, but I’ll refrain from that (as usual). It does not need water, which in itself is a feat. Merely six years old, and showing balance and maturation enough to be highly drinkable at 68.2 % ABV. Wow!. Appears more peaty on the palate - sweet wood smoke again, but also sugary ashes, and licorice flavoured bits of charcoal. The spices are less prominent here, but the sweetness is deeeep. Honey and nuts, as well as orchard fruit jam.

Finish: Medium long finish. More fruity on the finish; mainly baked apples. The sweetness turns darker, demerara sugar and hints of toffee and coffee. A slight touch of pine wood and oak in the smokiness right on the finish line.

Comment: A tremendous knock-out punch from Pär!

Score 89/100

Sláinte!
- Thomas