Aber Falls 3 Years Old Kintra Whisky Single Cask Collection Cask 1165 52.21% 2020

Professional reviews

BOW (86)

Aber Falls Whisky Distillery 3 Years Old Kintra Whisky Single Cask Collection Cask 1165: A Welsh Delight

If you're a whisky enthusiast, the name Kintra Whisky is likely not unfamiliar to you. The Dutch independent bottler, helmed by the renowned Erik Molenaar, has made a name for itself by curating exceptional and playful whisky picks from distilleries around the world. Among their impressive repertoire, one gem stands out - the Aber Falls Whisky Distillery 3 Years Old Single Cask Collection Cask 1165.

This particular whisky is a rare find, as it's one of the very first Single Cask releases from the esteemed Aber Falls Distillery, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Wales. Distilled on the 14th of January 2020 and bottled on the 14th of April 2023, it spent its entire maturation journey on Virgin American Oak casks. At just three years old, this expression might raise some eyebrows, but don't let its age deceive you. Despite its youthfulness, it has already achieved a remarkable level of maturity.

One of the defining characteristics of this single malt is the balanced interplay between its youthful exuberance and the oak's influence. The Virgin American Oak casks have lent their character to the whisky, imparting a delightful array of flavors and aromas. Yet, it's apparent that the oak did not overpower the spirit, allowing the inherent qualities of the Aber Falls whisky to shine through.

Upon nosing this delightful creation, one is greeted with a subtle yet captivating aroma of fresh oranges and a touch of candied sugar. The spice notes are quite prominent, with hints of spicy rye adding complexity to the profile. As you continue to explore, there's a faint waxy undertone that adds depth to the experience, reminiscent of well-polished furniture.

In the mouth, the whisky dances on the palate with a delightful combination of sweet and spicy notes. The citrusy zest of oranges complements the gentle sweetness of kandijsuiker (a traditional Belgian rock sugar). The spicy rye character persists, with a slight peppery kick that adds a pleasant vibrancy to the overall taste. As you savor this whisky, you can't help but marvel at how much complexity has been achieved in just three short years.

It's essential to note that this is a limited edition, with only 135 bottles available worldwide. Each bottle holds a unique piece of history, representing the distillery's early days and the masterful selection by Kintra Whisky. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, securing a bottle of Aber Falls Whisky Distillery 3 Years Old Kintra Whisky Single Cask Collection Cask 1165 is akin to owning a piece of whisky heritage.

The man behind Kintra Whisky, Erik Molenaar, is renowned for his keen nose and uncanny ability to handpick exceptional casks. His passion for whisky is evident in each release, and the Aber Falls expression is undoubtedly no exception. Molenaar's expertise has allowed this young whisky to shine, transforming it into something extraordinary.

In conclusion, the Aber Falls Whisky Distillery 3 Years Old Kintra Whisky Single Cask Collection Cask 1165 is a testament to the artistry of both the distillery and the independent bottler. It showcases the potential of Aber Falls' spirit even at such a tender age and highlights Erik Molenaar's skill as a whisky curator. If you're fortunate enough to lay your hands on a bottle, relish the opportunity to savor this Welsh delight that promises an exceptional and memorable whisky experience. Sláinte!

Serge Valentin (84)

Don't they have a GI in Wales now? Does that mean that the whiskies do share many common traits? Do they have a tasting committee? Now I did like Aber Falls' official 'Inaugural Release' (WF 82). The 'Autumn 2021' was a tad less entrancing in my book (WF 79). Colour: full gold. Nose: instant plywood, balsa, bergamots and sweet spices, very modern, oak-driven but rather with class. Rye bread, spelt... Hope water won't kill it. With water: oh good fun, with some turmeric and citrusy hops, wheat bran... Mouth (neat): bananas, vanilla, lemongrass, spicy bread, some sawdust, a little rye once more, bits of dried papaya. With water: I don't quite know how they toast/char their virgin oak, but once again bananas, papayas and some lighter maple syrup are running the show. Water does not flatten it too much (which happens with heavy-oaked young whiskies). Finish: what's more, I'm not finding any pineapples. Comments: modern, very good and not 'that young'. I doubt the fine folks at Kintra would have selected it otherwise

Whisky Notes (82)

Nose: a lot of spice comes out first. Ginger, white pepper and simple hints of fresh oak shavings. This evolves to nutmeg and baking spice. Underneath is a warm vanilla sweetness and floral honey. Minty freshness too. Then hints of peach and sweet citrus. Slightly narrow but pleasant.

Mouth: lightly fragrant wood in front row, with a bittersweet citrus (peel) note following closely. White pepper and nutmeg. Vanilla custard. Then tart lemon and plenty of aniseed. The wood influence is strong but I must admit I expected even more wood spice.

Finish: medium long, mostly on wood spice, with a faint warming mocha note.

This is rather balanced considering the fact that it’s a very young rye whisky matured in a virgin oak cask. Spices are clearly present but not overtaking the spirit. Limited flavours though.