There’s lots going on in this dram (impressive for a bourbon, which can be stylistically one-dimensional). Aromas span toffee, sandalwood and leather, marmalade and mint, potpourri notes like dried roses. The palate is full and dry with elegant wood influence and a satisfying prickle; dark chocolate, orange peel, clove and allspice. One of my favourite bourbons.
A blend of rye, barley and corn whiskies fermented, distilled and aged differently (as is the Canadian way), Forty Creek Copper Pot is a pretty dram without a trace of daintiness. Butterscotch and vanilla on the nose with a pronounced golden fruit presence like apricot and sultanas. Initially sweet, almost like roasted marshmallows; it doesn’t take long for spice to swoop in and present a peppery, grain-packed finish.
JP Wiser’s cleaned up at this year’s Canadian Whisky Awards, where their brawny 100% rye whisky Lot No 40 scooped the title of Canadian Whisky of the Year. Noses dark rye bread, fermented cherries and hints of banana flambé. Powerful, balanced and oily in the mouth with flavours of vanilla, black tea, wood and spice. A well-muscled rye whisky deserving of its accolades.
The little whisky that stirred the pot after it was named Jim Murray’s 2015 World Whisky of the Year late last November was released in slightly different bottlings for American and domestic markets, according to Murray. The Canadian version is like a romp in a confectionary — bubblegum, caramel and candied strawberry with a pervasive spiciness; the nose reminds me of a Belgian tripel. Lively rye spice and smooth caramel steers the drinking experience.
CC’s incredibly affordable all-rye whisky claimed the title of Sippin’ Whisky of the Year at the 6th annual Canadian Whisky Awards held in Victoria, BC in January. A light and super-fruity nose of pear drops and currant jelly precedes flavours of dark chocolate and candied cherries with contributions from spice-rack staples like clove and aniseed.
Recently released Gooderham & Worts is a 4-grain blend of rye, wheat, barley and corn whiskies (an unusual melange for any whisky style, let alone a Canadian expression). Orchard fruits, caramel, sweet sandalwood and tobacco on the nose with green notes like tea leaves flitting around. A silky intro followed by chest-warming rye spice; tastes like good honey on rye toast.
This fruity Canadian corn whisky aims to please the bourbon-drinking masses. Toffee, dark fruit and rock candy on the nose with a wine-tinged wood character that reveals itself in background whiffs of marzipan and cinnamon bark. Sweet and lengthy on the palate with a mulled fruitiness that points to time spent finishing in vintage port pipes after 10 years in first-fill white American oak.