Kavalan SOLIST Fino Sherry Cask
In the world of whisky, there are a few names that immediately stand for quality and innovation. Kavalan, a Taiwanese distillery, has firmly established itself among the best whisky producers in the world in recent years. The Kavalan SOLIST Fino Sherry Cask in particular has attracted the attention of whisky connoisseurs worldwide with its exceptional maturity and impressive depth. In this review, we take a closer look at this fascinating single malt.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The very first nosing reveals a true explosion of flavours. The Kavalan SOLIST Fino Sherry Cask seduces the nose with intense fruity flavours. Mango and apple dominate at first, followed by a hint of nutty flavours reminiscent of freshly cracked walnuts. Notes of caramel and sugar syrup unfold in the background, accompanied by brown sugar reminiscent of fresh Black Forest cake. Leather and sultanas join in and give the fragrance a warm, earthy depth, while coffee, peach and sandalwood round off the scent.
Palate
In the mouth, the Kavalan SOLIST Fino Sherry Cask presents itself as a thick syrup whose viscosity literally melts on the tongue. The intense fruitiness of plums remains present for a long time and is accompanied by strong sherry notes, which give this whisky its depth and strength of character. The taste experience is rounded off by the combination of toffee and milk chocolate - a harmonious blend of nut and caramel that emphasises the sweetness. A surprising note of blueberry jam brings additional freshness, while a hint of boiled egg adds an interesting, slightly savoury component.
Finish
The finish of the Taiwanese is exceptionally long and intense. Roasted flavours dominate at first and slowly turn into the sweetness of a dessert wine. The sherry remains the undisputed star here and accompanies the finish to the end. A slight bitterness and the tart notes of black tea provide an elegant, dry finish.
Thoughts
Marcel 90/100
This Kavalan SOLIST Fino Sherry Cask is a genuine taste experience that immediately captivates with its intense fruity sweetness and velvety texture. For anyone who loves sherry whiskies and wants to try something exotic from Taiwan, it’s an absolute bullseye – complex, profound, and with a finish that lingers long after the last sip.
Sascha 88/100
With its balanced structure between intense fruitiness, robust sherry notes, and a clearly defined cask strength, the Kavalan SOLIST Fino Sherry Cask impresses through complexity and depth. The harmonious balance between sweet and tart elements makes it a technically sophisticated single malt that sets standards in the Taiwanese whisky scene.
Value for Money: No rating
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81/100Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Kavalan SOLIST Fino Sherry Cask special compared to other sherry-cask whiskies?
The Kavalan SOLIST Fino Sherry Cask stands out due to its maturation in fino sherry casks, which impart a unique combination of intense fruitiness, nutty notes, and a complex sweetness. Its thick, viscous texture and the long, sherry-dominated finish clearly distinguish it from classic sherry-cask whiskies.
Why does the Kavalan SOLIST Fino Sherry Cask have no age statement (No Age Statement)?
Kavalan deliberately omits an age statement on this single malt to focus on the quality and character of the whisky. The maturation in specially selected fino sherry casks and the high cask strength (57.8% ABV) deliver a complex tasting experience that convinces regardless of age.
How should one best enjoy the Kavalan SOLIST Fino Sherry Cask to fully appreciate its aromas?
To fully experience the diverse aromas, it’s recommended to drink the Kavalan SOLIST Fino Sherry Cask neat and at room temperature. A wide nosing glass helps to unfold the intense fruit, nut, and sherry notes. If needed, a few drops of water can be added to further open up the aromas.