Although they typically get a reputation for being a winter drink, dark spirits can be enjoyed all year round.
As the temperatures rise and more time is being spent outside, there are a few whiskies to keep on hand to help cool you off. There’s nothing that a neat pour or a whiskey-based cocktail won’t fix.
Here are ten whiskies to sip on this summer.
Barrel Whiskey Batch 004
Aged for 11 years in American oak barrels, Barrel Whiskey Batch 004 should be on your radar. The golden amber liquid has notes of creamy milky sugar and caramelized plantains. It finishes with a roasted grapefruit and tangy lemon curd that coats the tongue and mouth. It makes for a delicious sipper in the summer. While there’s always the option to enjoy it on its own, add a splash of spring water for the whiskey to take on a softer texture.
Off Hours Bourbon
This modern take on bourbon is made for afternoon relaxation and after-dinner conversations. Not only will the bottle look exquisite on a bar cart, but its smooth and balanced taste has notes of vanilla, nutmeg, and toasted pecans. Each sip has rich notes of cinnamon with a silky finish. It’s for the moments in between.
Hibiki Blended Suntory Whisky
Japanese spirits have really paved their way in the industry throughout the years. On the nose, you’ll get hints of rose and lychee, both perfect for summertime. It’s crafted from a blend of 12 grains and malts and gets aged in American oak, sherry oak, and Mizunara (a Japanese oak) to yield a bright butterscotch color. You’ll find notes of honey, pear, and cinnamon in each sip.
Woodford Reserve Malt Whiskey
Unlike other malts, Woodford Reserve Malt Whiskey is a Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey crafted from 51% malt and aged in new charred oak barrels. It’s the malt whiskey for bourbon lovers. The warm amber liquid has nutty dark chocolate and caramel notes that are brightened with traces of toasted coconut.
Four Roses Small Batch
This perfectly balanced bourbon was chosen by the Master Distiller at the peak of its maturation. Four Roses Distillery begins with the grains—using only the highest quality and non-GMO stuff. It’s aged six to seven years to yield a 90-proof spirit that is great on its own or with a splash of your favorite mixer.
NIKKA Coffey Grain Whisky
The world’s first patented continuous still was invented by Aeneas Coffey in 1830. While they aren’t the most efficient way to obtain spirits and aren’t easy to operate, they deliver a creamy texture. NIKKA Coffey Grain Whisky was crafted to showcase the beauty the Coffey Stills can offer. This Japanese whisky is predominantly made from corn to yield a sweet and mellow flavor.
Kaigan Whisky Expression
Another Japanese whisky to add to your collection, and it all begins with water for Kaigan. The distillery, located in Japan, is situated where Mount Mikuni and the Sugihara River flow. This spring water was declared one of the best waters in Japan. Aged for a minimum of three years, Kaigan Japanese Whisky has a sweet honey and vanilla taste that leads to a bold and rich finish.
The Macallan Triple Casks Matured 12 Years Old
All the whiskey lovers have The Macallan is on their radar. The Triple Casks Matured 12 Years Old is a light single malt bursting with fresh flavors—making it a perfect choice for the warm weather. European oak casks, American sherry seasoned oak casks, and American ex-bourbon oak casks create a whiskey full of fresh citrus fruits.
Basil Hayden Red Wine Cask Finish
If you’re looking for something unique and different, look no further. This whiskey is a blend of Basil Hayden’s classic high-rye mash bill and bourbon that gets partially aged in California red wine casks. It’s full of cherries and red fruit notes while still providing the traditional bourbon flavors of vanilla and charred oak. Although it might seem intimidating, it’s still incredibly approachable with a warm and crisp finish.
Starward Nova Single Malt Whisky
Beginning in their Melbourne distillery, they double-distill their single-mat whisky using Australian malted barley. All the barrels are sourced locally from wineries to achieve that red-wine flavor profile. It creates flavors of red berry pudding covered in vanilla, caramel, and spice. With each sip, you’ll get long and balanced finishes, and as the sweetness fades, the delicious flavor lasts.
The post 10 Whiskies For Summer Sipping appeared first on Chilled Magazine.
Source: Mixology News
