As each year passes whisky lovers face increasing choice on what to fill their glass with before toasting England’s patron saint on St George’s Day.
This year I have chosen a dram from the distillery that (re)started whisky in England – The English Whisky Company‘s St George’s Distillery. Restarted of course, because until the late 19th century there were a number of distilleries in England. After over a hundred years of no English representation on the world whisky map, St George’s distillery opened in Norfolk in late 2006, producing a number of different expressions available as “chapters” as the spirit matures.
This second release of Chapter 13 is a limited edition bottled to mark St George’s Day 2014, and carries a commemorative label. Chosen through competition, the winning entry created by Emma Garner features quintessential icons of England – tea, Big Ben, top hats.
Colour & First Impressions
A light-mid amber which suggests at least some ex-sherry cask maturation.
Nose
Initially sweet, warm and spicy. Lots of brown sugar, vanilla and a hint of cinnamon. Some dried fruit and a wood influence that brings more spice. Crème brûlée and a faint hint of other delightful desserts.
Taste
Lots of caramelised sugar and rich dried fruit on the palate – rum and raisin toffee. Warm spice and butter, cinnamon rolls.
Finish & Final Impressions
The woody spice notes dry out for a light finish – perhaps not as climatic a finish as the palate may have suggested, but it certainly has you pouring another glass rather quickly!
Details
- Bottle 0484 of 1499
- Bottled at 45% ABV
- No colouring
- Non chill-filtered