Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique Single Malt Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 57.1%           Age: No Age Statement           Country: Taiwan

Winner of the 2015 World Whisky Awards – Whisky of The Year

In ancient times, the land around I-Lan in Taiwan was called Kavalan, a mysterious land that was solely inhabited by the indigenous people of the Kavalan clan. The name was officially recognized by the Emperor of the Chin dynasty in the year of 1809 when the original city was also built under the same name.

Kavalan had always been kept primitive and protected from the outside world by the Syue-shan mountain range which is abundant in high quality natural water that comes from deep within the mountain range. The mists of Kavalan and the spirits of the past have been created for you in this exquisite whisky.

Vinho is fully matured in used American oak wine barrels that have been toasted and re-charred in a way that brings out fruity vanilla notes from the whisky and wood overlaid on a delicate background of complex fruitiness.

The oak casks are made from American oak that has been seasoned in the open air for at least 24 months. The oak is slow grown that results in a greater release of flavours into the whisky. This reduces the astringent effect of tannins and releases more vanilla spiciness and hints of herbs such as dill and lemon grass. The result is softness and added complexity.

The casks have (deliberately) been used to mature both red and white wines which eventually will contribute the background complex fruitiness to Kavalan Solist Vinho.

After their use for wine maturation the casks are carefully shaved inside then gently toasted over an oak chip fire for a strictly controlled period of time and temperature. This converts wine residues into a complex mixture of fruit flavours including lime, berry fruits and peaches. Then the casks are charred for a short period of time to release lashings of flavours such as vanilla, ice cream and caramelised sugars.

The result is a more complex whisky than is possible than with whisky casks alone!

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: Freshly baked apple pie with cinnamon and nutmeg, caramelised orchard fruits and rich dark chocolate. A touch of water and this whisky explodes with tropical fruits and citrus.

Palate: Rich and creamy vanilla fudge, espresso coffee, polished oak. Blackberries, blueberries and brambles.

Finish: Plums and figs, red apples and delicate spice. Touch of armagnac and Cabernet Sauvignon. 

Awards

World’s Best Single Malt – World Whisky Awards 2015

Superior Gold Winner – Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition 2020

Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2020

Double Gold – International Spirits Challenge 2020

Platinum – San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019

Double Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2019