Betz Sauternes Cask 2017/2022 Batch 1
The Betz Sauternes Cask Batch 1 is a German whisky matured in the Betz Distillery. Its speciality lies in its ageing in Sauternes casks, a sweet French dessert wine that gives the whisky a unique flavour. But does it live up to its promise?
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Buy on AmazonTasting Notes
Nose
The first sniff reveals a sweetish fragrance accompanied by light sulphur notes. This is accompanied by fruity flavours of raspberry and a subtle hint of caramel. A hint of mould and sourdough rounds off the aroma profile and gives the whisky a certain complexity.
Palate
A harmonious interplay of honey and marzipan unfolds on the tongue, supported by a light wine note. There is a subtle astringency and a slight bitterness that lends depth to the flavour. A slightly gamy undertone provides an unusual, unpleasant flavour nuance.
Finish
The finish is of medium length and leaves an impression of ripe grapes and a slightly sweet note.
Thoughts
Marcel 60/100 - (Good)
The Betz Sauternes Cask Batch 1 is a pleasant whisky with sweet fruitiness and charming marzipan notes – but somehow it lacks the wow factor. Those who enjoy experimental whisky styles and have fun with unusual cask finishes can definitely give this a try, yet genuine depth is hard to find here.
Sascha 63/100 - (Good)
A solid German whisky featuring an interesting Sauternes cask finish that brings sweet and fruity nuances. However, overall the dram feels somewhat underdeveloped and shows slight off-notes that affect its balance and complexity.
Value for Money: 2/5 (Expensive)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does maturation in Sauternes casks influence the flavor of this whisky?
Maturation in Sauternes casks imparts sweet and fruity notes to the whisky, especially honey, marzipan, and ripe grapes. At the same time, complex aromas develop, complemented by subtle sulfur and sourdough hints.
Why are unusual flavor notes like mustiness or a slightly off-putting undertone perceptible in the Betz Sauternes Cask 2017/2022?
These atypical notes can arise from the specific cask maturation and microbiological processes during aging. They contribute a complex, though not universally pleasant, flavor nuance that shapes the character of this whisky.
How long was the Betz Sauternes Cask 2017/2022 Batch 1 matured, and how does this affect the whisky?
The whisky was matured for five years. This moderate aging period allows the cask notes, particularly those of the Sauternes wine, to stand out clearly without the whisky becoming too woody or overpowered.