Stauning Barley Distillery Edition Makers Mark Bourbon Cask
Mellow, Sweet Fruity2024-09-08
Smell
The Stauning Barley is very fresh and youthful from the very first nosing. The dominant notes of light-coloured fruit, especially apple, are immediately apparent. This fruity bouquet is accompanied by subtle hints of vanilla, caramel and a touch of oak - typical characteristics of ageing in bourbon barrels. With a little imagination, you could also sense a hint of malt, but this tends to remain in the background. Overall, the flavour is somewhat one-dimensional and not very complex.
Taste
The impression of youthfulness is further emphasised on the palate. The apple dominates here too, accompanied by a clear tingling sensation on the tongue. The fruity flavours are more reminiscent of a fruit brandy such as apricot or quince than a classic malt whisky. A hint of vanilla emerges, but quickly disappears again. Unfortunately, the flavour lacks depth.
Finish
The finish of the Stauning Barley surprises with a subtle sweetness reminiscent of cream caramel and refined sugar. The slightly dry note of oak is also evident here, which at least gives the whisky some character in the aftertaste. Nevertheless, the overall impression remains rather flat and unexciting.
Thoughts
The Stauning Barley Distillery Edition leaves mixed feelings. The youthful freshness of the whisky is unmistakable and gives it a certain lightness that may appeal to some. But on the whole, the whisky comes across as immature and unfinished. Despite being matured in high-quality bourbon casks, it lacks the depth and complexity to really impress. The most impressive thing is the delicate oak note in the finish, but even this does not save the whisky from its overall flat profile.