Betz PX Single Cask 2017/2021 52

Smell

The nose does indeed begin interestingly: citrus notes, almonds and a slight raspberry sweetness mingle with dark fruits and sultanas. A hint of rum-grape-nut-chocolate gives hope that something special is waiting here. But then comes the disillusionment - the flavours are superficial and quickly evaporate. The promised sherry bomb? Not a chance. Instead, a sharp, almost aggressive note dominates, clouding the overall impression.

Taste

The first sip confirms our fears: Boring. The flavour is flat and uninspired. There are hints of dark chocolate, a slight sweetness and even a hint of Mon Chéri chocolates, but everything remains pale and underdeveloped. The PX influences are barely noticeable and the whisky does not manage to be full-bodied. Instead, an oaky dryness dominates, leaving only emptiness instead of complexity.

Finish

The finish is short and unpleasantly sharp. Pepper and cocoa try to assert themselves, but here too there is a lack of depth and balance. The spiciness lingers persistently in the mouth and leaves an unpleasant aftertaste that is more reminiscent of cheap spirits than a carefully matured single cask.