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Hardly any other nation is as closely linked to whisky enjoyment as Scotland. It has the highest density of active distilleries, which account for around 40 percent of world production. The closest competitors in terms of whisky production are Ireland and the USA - but other countries have also made a name for themselves as whisky producers. Join us on a journey to lesser-known distilleries and get to know representatives who do not need to shy away from comparison with Scottish, Irish or American classics:
1.Our tour through the whisky landscape starts on our own doorstep: The Pure Black Forest Single Malt from Marder Whisky comes from the Black Forest, where the popular Monkey Gin is also produced. Unlike its cousin, the whisky was only created in 2014; However, it immediately became an insider tip among single malt fans. A short time later, its name appeared in Jim Murray's annual whisky bible, where it received an incredible 92 out of 100 possible points.
This exceptional talent is based on barley malt mash and matures twice: firstly in bourbon barrels made of American white oak; secondly in used port wine containers. This develops sweet aromas of honey and vanilla, which are complemented by subtle nut and almond tones as well as Smoke and tobacco create an interesting contrast.
2. This strongly smoky representative literally comes from next door. It is distilled in the Dutch Zuidam distillery, which has been using purely manual work since 1975. It is famous for the primal-looking gin "Dutch Courage", which we present to you in our list of the best . The makers of their whisky also remain true to manual production and old values.
Millstone is bottled at 46% ABV, so that its flavors come through in full strength. The delicious color comes from the sherry casks in which it is stored - which also give it its outstanding aromas. To fully enjoy the strong smoke, fruity sweetness and fine spices of this whisky, you should first serve it neat.
3Above the last stop is one of the few rye distilleries in Europe, the Danish Stauning distillery. Founded in 2006, it was the first whisky producer in the country; the hyggelig people now produce various offshoots of their national original.
The pot still distillation of barley and rye results in a round, fruity taste that is reminiscent of the roasted aromas of freshly baked bread and is deepened by bourbon barrels. In the "Bastard" version, the Stauning Rye Whisky is given an exotic finish in Mexican Oro de Oaxaca barrels.
4. Even further north there is a people who have a hard time launching spirits. But despite the strictest laws and advertising bans, the Finnish distillery Kyrö managed to pull off a masterpiece: just one year after its founding, the company's gin received the highest award at the International Wine & Spirits Competition.
Today, Kyrö produces not only juniper brandy but also whisky, which is made from 100% Finnish wholegrain rye. But be careful! In addition to the initial herbal and spruce forest notes, an oily, sweet taste soon sets in - which becomes dry in the finish and has a bitter aftertaste. Quite special, but definitely worth a try if you dare.
5Our whisky tour ends with a detour to Russia - and at the same time we come full circle, because the local Praskoveya distillery produces according to Irish methods. As a former winery, the site has earned a good reputation as a wine and cognac supplier. In 2009, director Boris Pakhunov dared to experiment with adding whisky to the range.
Its aromas are reminiscent of cut grass and green bananas; accentuated by caraway and vanilla pod. Ginger, cinnamon and cloves also come to the fore - which give way to pure grain notes in the finish and make Praskoveyskoe a very special treat. Unfortunately, you can currently only buy the Slavic delicacy from a few online shops; but you will surely find it on Amazon soon.
... Or go to the overview and look at other whisky best lists!
