The Westfalian Cask 73
Mellow, Sweet Fruity2023-08-13
Smell
On the nose, the malt is voluminous, with smoked ham combined with intense fruity notes of plum and blackberry. We find aromas of grilled sausage and tobacco leaves. There is also a hint of an old leather sofa in a damp cellar. As you penetrate the heavy peat, this Westfalian becomes very fruity and the sherry cask comes to the fore.
Taste
Contrary to expectations, the first impression in the mouth is very sweet. Strong berry flavours are complemented by earthy smoke. Extremely complex, playing with the sweetness of jam and heavy peat smoke. The whisky is smooth and oily, but also leaves a certain dryness on the palate. We detect a hint of saltiness and subtle oak notes.
Finish
There is a slight tingling of pepper on the finish. The malt does not linger too long in the mouth, leaving a sweet smoke with a slight saltiness and again subtle oak.
Thoughts
TW73 is, once again, a very successful composition of interesting flavours. Not funky and exotic, but well rounded and coherent, this Westfalian presents itself as a solid, high quality product. The 'Scottish soul' in this bottling is almost reminiscent of a long-aged Talisker.