The Westfalian TW73
The Westfalian began producing regional premium whiskies in 2012. This means they can now offer 10-years bottlings of the German with the Scottish soul. We were able to secure part of the TW73 cask. A peated single malt matured in an ex-Port Charlotte sherry cask. As we are used to from The Westfalian, of course, single cask, unfiltered, uncoloured, uncut.
Tasting Notes
Nose
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.
Palate
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
Marcel 88/100
A genuine taste experience that immediately captivates with its smoky spice and fruity notes. The Westfalian TW73 demonstrates just how much character and drinking pleasure can be found in a German single malt – all while remaining charming and pleasantly approachable. Perfect for anyone unafraid of a bit of peat and a touch of bacon.
Sascha 88/100
A well-structured and balanced malt with complex aromas of peat smoke, sherry, and berries, distinguished by its oily texture and subtle salty note. Despite its 53.3% ABV, The Westfalian TW73 feels harmonious, offering a precise interplay of sweetness, smoke, and light oak, although the finish is somewhat short. A technical example of successful cask influence in German single malt.
Value for Money: Fair
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What makes the former Port Charlotte sherry cask special for the TW73?
The Port Charlotte sherry cask imparts an intense fruitiness to the TW73, with aromas of plum and blackberry, as well as a deep sherry sweetness that complements the whisky’s peaty character and adds complexity.
How does the peat influence the flavor of this German single malt?
The peat provides smoky and earthy notes that define the whisky’s character. In the TW73, the peat is particularly heavy but balanced by sweet and fruity aromas, creating a harmonious balance.
Why is the TW73 bottled unfiltered, uncolored, and undiluted?
Bottling without chill filtration, without added color, and at cask strength (53.3% ABV) preserves the whisky’s natural aromas and intensity, ensuring the single cask character is maintained to the fullest.