Mackmyra Intelligens AI:02
Mackmyra Intelligens AI:02, the successor to Mackmyra Intelligens AI:01, promises an improved recipe and an adjustment of the casks in which this Swedish single malt Whisky matures. To refine the flavour depth, small ex-Oloroso Sherry casks and a little peat smoke was added.We still like the marketing very much. On the website, there are release notes for the Whisky, which is actually more usual for software. For example, the change in colour compared to the predecessor is indicated in hex code. A touch nerdy, but very fitting. The design of the label has also been updated slightly.
Tasting Notes
Nose
We smell vanilla, honey, pear, apple, caramel. Very summery-sweet. Deeper Lemon balm sweets and a slight hint of spices and white pepper. We were not able to perceive the background smoketail mentioned in the release notes.
Palate
The Swedish Single Malt Whisky opens with vanilla caramel as well as notes of citrus fruits and a strong orange aroma. Woven into a light smoky shell, the initially sweet start turns into unexpectedly dry and bitter oak notes. The mouthfeel remains very soft, almost creamy.
Finish
The subtle smoke is found in the finish paired with slightly bitter oak notes.
Thoughts
Marcel 79/100
Mackmyra Intelligens AI:02 delivers noticeably more drinking pleasure than its predecessor – the smoky cloak adds character, while unfortunately the sweet notes are abruptly replaced by dry oak tones. Still, this Swedish single malt remains a likeable companion for relaxed moments thanks to its creamy mouthfeel. I'm curious to see how the story continues with the AI:03!
Sascha 81/100
The AI:02 version of Mackmyra impresses with an improved balance between sweet vanilla and citrus notes and a subtle smoky structure, although the sudden shift to bitter oak tones slightly disrupts the harmony. The inclusion of small ex-Oloroso casks adds depth, yet the finish feels somewhat unbalanced as a result. A technically interesting experiment that still leaves room for improvement.
Value for Money: Fair
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What does the addition "AI:02" in the name Mackmyra Intelligens AI:02 mean?
"AI:02" denotes the second version of Mackmyra's Intelligens series, where data analysis and artificial intelligence were used to optimize the recipe and cask selection in order to enhance flavor depth and complexity.
How does the use of small ex-Oloroso casks influence the taste of Mackmyra Intelligens AI:02?
The small ex-Oloroso casks impart additional aromas of dried fruits and nuttiness, as well as a more intense oak character, which together with the subtle peat smoke contribute to greater depth and complexity in the flavor.
Why is there no age statement on Mackmyra Intelligens AI:02?
Mackmyra Intelligens AI:02 is a so-called No-Age-Statement (NAS) whisky, meaning the exact age of the whiskies used is not disclosed. This allows the producer to blend different vintages to achieve a consistent flavor profile.