Triple Cask French Oak – Ex-Chardonnay, Oloroso & Apera Barrels

Matured in a combination of shaven and heavily charred French oak casks that had each previously held Spanish Oloroso Sherry, Orlando Chardonnay, and Australian Apera, this whisky has significant depth and flavour, body, and balance.

The triple cask architecture is the most complex in the Baroque archive. Three distinct cask types, each with its own previous contents and its own contribution to the maturing spirit, are brought together to produce a single expression. Oloroso is a fully oxidised, dry Spanish Sherry with a rich, nutty, dried fruit character and considerable structural weight. Orlando Chardonnay, one of Australia’s most historically significant wine labels, contributes stone fruit, light oak, and a brightness that lifts the heavier elements. Australian Apera adds its distinctive fortified character to complete the composition.

The provenance of each individual cask matters as much as the proportions. Too much Oloroso and the sherry dominates; too much Chardonnay and the wine character flattens the malt; too much Apera and the oxidative note overwhelms the fruit. The balance achieved here is the result of deliberate selection.

Tasting Notes

Nose. With a dark amber red hue, the whisky is pleasing in the clarity of the nose. Restrained and shy at first, it hides the beast lurking in plain sight. Aromas of Christmas cake and spices of cinnamon and star anise, burnt caramel and toffee, coupled with citrus peels, a panoply of berries, and redskin lollies.

Palate. The palate shines through with dried figs, dates, and raisins. Salted caramel and dark macerated fruits follow, reminiscent of a 1960s Bowmore. This whisky would accompany the best Christmas cake and add to the experience with its blend of fine nougat, sweet vanilla, and chewy mouthfeel.

Finish. Decadence invites further sips, providing a medium to long dry finish with notes of forest fruits, dark chocolate, and oolong tea. Spice notes of nutmeg, mace, cloves, pepper, and lovely bitter marmalade. An absolute belter that balances the flavours and finish perfectly. A natural companion to a fine cigar pairing.

Technical Details

Edition: 2.06

ABV: 43%

Cask type: Triple cask, shaven and heavily charred French Oak, ex-Spanish Oloroso Sherry, ex-Orlando Chardonnay, and ex-Australian Apera