Mac-Talla Red Wine-Barriques
The Mac-Talla Red Wine Barriques is a limited edition, bottled at 53.8% by Morrison Scotch Whisky Distillers. It is a single malt from an unnamed distillery on the Scottish island of Islay. The 24 married casks were pre-filled with wines from the Bordeaux region in France.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The first impression of the Mac-Talla Red Wine-Barrique delights the senses with a rich and complex variety of flavours. Blackberries, cherries and red grapes dominate the nose, accompanied by an intense smoky flavour. This smoky flavour is accompanied by ashy notes and a dirty character that gives the whisky a rustic depth. Yeast and a distinct sweet fruitiness behind the smoke complete the olfactory experience. Overall, the odour is reminiscent of a high-quality red wine that has been refined with a smoky note.
Palate
The whisky unfolds its full splendour on the tongue. An oily, warming mouthfeel greets the palate, immediately reminiscent of red wine. This impression is accompanied by a warm campfire that once again emphasises the ashy notes. The flavour of port wine shines through, while cinnamon and milk chocolate provide a spicy sweetness. Cherries, sultanas and plums round off the flavour profile and give the whisky a fruity depth that harmonises perfectly with the smoky and spicy elements.
Finish
The finish of the Islay malt is long and impressive. Blackberry and slightly bitter oak dominate the finish, while a beautiful spiciness ensures a lingering flavour experience. The fruity sweetness and dried fruit in the finish emphasise the complexity.
Thoughts
Marcel 85/100
This Mac-Talla Red Wine Barriques is a genuine taste experience – smoky, fruity, and with a pleasant warmth that’s simply enjoyable. The combination of Islay smoke and Bordeaux wine is so harmonious that you’ll want to pour another glass right away. For connoisseurs seeking character and drinking pleasure, it’s a clear bullseye!
Sascha 87/100
The Mac-Talla Red Wine Barriques demonstrates an impressive balance between intense smokiness and complex fruity sweetness, precisely structured by the Bordeaux cask maturation. The 53.8% ABV is carefully integrated, making the whisky both powerful and harmonious. A technically successful example of blending Islay character with red wine aromas.
Value for Money: Fair
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86/100Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Mac-Talla Red Wine Barriques matured in Bordeaux wine casks?
Maturation in Bordeaux wine casks imparts a distinctive fruitiness and depth to the whisky. The previous wine aromas, such as blackberry and cherry, merge with the smoky character of the Islay malt, creating a complex flavor profile.
What special qualities does the high alcohol content of 53.8% bring?
With 53.8% ABV, the Mac-Talla Red Wine Barriques offers an intense flavor experience and a warming finish. Due to the higher alcohol level, it is recommended to dilute the whisky with a little water to better release the aromas.
Is the Mac-Talla Red Wine Barriques a typical Islay whisky despite the wine cask maturation?
Yes, despite maturation in Bordeaux wine casks, the whisky retains its characteristic Islay profile with smoky, ashy notes. The wine cask aging complements this with fruity and spicy accents without overshadowing the island’s typical style.