Deanston has improved massively in recent years. The first whisky that made me take notice was a 10 year old PX cask strength US exclusive bottling - which was awesome. Deanston spirit really suits sweet PX casks.
The three year PX sherry cask finish here gives this Distillery Exclusive release delectable fruit notes, with a beautiful sweetness and warming spice of cloves. Limited to 2015 bottles and only available at the distillery.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Deep copper
Nose
Nuts, rich oak and layers of caramel, beautifully balanced with coffee, dark chocolate, sultanas, figs and a hint of leather
Palate
Dates and raisins are met with orange marmalade, vanilla pods, muscovado sugar and a warm clove spice
Finish
Creamy strawberries with hints of oak and liquorice.
In classic Australian style, this whisky has absolutely rippled flavour out of its cask. However, while I was expecting spiky youth in the spirit and the abv, it drinks with a maturity and ease that belies these facts. I have since bought two bottles. Absolutely delicious and as good, if not better, than it’s Scotch peers
Nose: A rich herbal aroma intertwined with bonfire smoke, evoking imagery of a seaside campfire. Notes of sea salt, struck matches, and subtle roasted orange peel linger behind the smoky veil.
Palate: Medium to full-bodied with a distinct oily texture. The high proof delivers a robust entry, blending sweet spices with peat, accented by a faint trace of sulfur.
Finish: Long and warming, with persistent ashy smoke and briny sea breeze. Hints of matchstick and a delicate iodine note round it out.
With Water: The aroma reveals pronounced wet sea salt and brine, with the smokiness softening into a rounder profile. Vanilla and oak emerge prominently. On the palate, the sweetness persists, with the peat becoming less intense, giving way to caramelized oak and fruit notes.
A gentle giant. This old grain whisky doesn’t try to shout, but it has plenty to say if you’re listening. A soft, elegant dram with aged sherry cask influence, balancing fruit, leather, oak, and just a whisper of tobacco. If you’re chasing subtle complexity over brute strength, this hits the mark.