Kavalan Native Species Solist Vinho Barrique Gift Set Taiwanese Single Malt Whisky (700ml) + Wine Oak (50ml)

Kavalan Native Species Solist Vinho Barrique Gift Set Taiwanese Single Malt Whisky (700ml) + Wine Oak (50ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 55.6%  + 54%         Age: No Age Statement           Country: Taiwan

Winner of the 2015 World Whisky Awards – Whisky of The Year

In ancient times, the land around I-Lan in Taiwan was called Kavalan, a mysterious land that was solely inhabited by the indigenous people of the Kavalan clan. The name was officially recognized by the Emperor of the Chin dynasty in the year of 1809 when the original city was also built under the same name. Kavalan had always been kept primitive and protected from the outside world by the Syue-shan mountain range which is abundant in high quality natural water that comes from deep within the mountain range. The mists of Kavalan and the spirits of the past have been created for you in this exquisite whisky.

Vinho is fully matured in used American oak wine barrels that have been toasted and re-charred in a way that brings out fruity vanilla notes from the whisky and wood overlaid on a delicate background of complex fruitiness. The oak casks are made from American oak that has been seasoned in the open air for at least 24 months. The oak is slow grown that results in a greater release of flavours into the whisky. This reduces the astringent effect of tannins and releases more vanilla spiciness and hints of herbs such as dill and lemon grass. The result is softness and added complexity. The casks have (deliberately) been used to mature both red and white wines which eventually will contribute the background complex fruitiness to Kavalan Solist Vinho. After their use for wine maturation the casks are carefully shaved inside then gently toasted over an oak chip fire for a strictly controlled period of time and temperature. This converts wine residues into a complex mixture of fruit flavours including lime, berry fruits and peaches. Then the casks are charred for a short period of time to release lashings of flavours such as vanilla, ice cream and caramelised sugars.

This is a limited release gift set of your favourite single malt whisky celebrating the native species of Taiwan. The packaging and bottle label are graced with The Formosan Leopard Cat. The Formosan Leopard Cathas cloud-like markings on its fur and is distinctive for its tail, which is shorter than that of other leopard cats. It is depicted with the Taiwan Barbet, three butterflies with auspicious symbolism, the Butterfly Orchid representing happiness and success, and the Tree Peony, a symbol of wealth.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: Freshly baked apple pie with cinnamon and nutmeg, caramelised orchard fruits and rich dark chocolate. A touch of water and this whisky explodes with tropical fruits and citrus.

Palate: Rich and creamy vanilla fudge, espresso coffee, polished oak. Blackberries, blueberries and brambles.

Finish: Plums and figs, red apples and delicate spice. Touch of armagnac and Cabernet Sauvignon. 

Official Tasting Notes

Colour: Deep autumn gold.

Nose: A rich fusion of vanilla and caramelised sugars with dark chocolate on top. Ripe melon and mango together with kiwi and a delicate blend of citrus fruits burst. Pepper is also present in the background waiting to be noticed. This bouquet is simply a sensational feast to your olfactory organ…

Palate: Caramel, marzipan, coffee-vanilla, fudge, rich, creamy, dried black fruits. Integrated and surprisingly light. Element of sandalwood. Starts creamy, waters out, almost disappears before rubbing hot brown sugar into the oesophagus. Tiny bitter trace.