I requested ChatGPT to jot down a WhiskyNotes-style introduction (no kidding) and that is the end result…
Two new Smögen releases from the parents at Decadent Drinks — a reputation that’s rapidly grow to be synonymous with characterful choices. This time we’re taking a look at a 2014 and a 2016 classic, each distilled at Sweden’s Smögen distillery, identified for its muscular, closely peated spirit. Let’s see how these two Nordic beasts carry out within the glass.
Smögen 10 yo 2014 (57,1%, Decadent Drinks ‘Decadent Drams’ 2024, Madeira hogshead / refill hogshead, 166 btl.)
Nostril: closely peated in a chic means, with numerous eucalyptus and inexperienced pine wooden, in addition to a salty edge, mild mentholated notes and hints of polished Ifé wooden. Motor oil and smoked bacon too. Then apricots and vibrant citrus within the background, with some burnt orange peel.
Mouth: oily and coastal peat, once more exhibiting this refreshing mintiness and pepperiness that balances the smoke. Inexperienced peppercorns, together with loads of citrus oils. Mid-palate the tarry facet turns into stronger, with liquorice, salty brine and seaweed. Then pink grapefruits and bitter plums.
End: lengthy and sooty, with a sliver of salty wooden and lightweight natural notes.
This very exact model of Smögen once more. Regardless of the heavy peat it manages to carry alongside some citrus fruits, coastal notes and this peculiar Nordic natural ingredient. Actually good. Nonetheless out there from Decadent Drinks or The Whisky Trade as an example.
Smögen 8 yo 2016 (57,1%, Decadent Drinks ‘Decadent Drams’ 2024, Oloroso quarter casks / second-fill sherry hogshead, 172 btl.)
Nostril: the Oloroso is on prime. There’s tobacco, some coppery notes and purple berries. Delicate industrial smoke, with extra engine oil and good automotive workshop aromas. One thing musty and even somewhat tacky, however it doesn’t trouble me. Then large hints of soy sauce, smoked meat and recent tar.
Mouth: quite a lot of umami notes once more. Smoked meat, a salty berry word, earthy peat and loads of pipe tobacco. Hints of caramelized fruits (possibly dates), chilly espresso and charred oranges and black pepper. Then smoked herbs seem, though the Nordic facet is much less outstanding right here.
End: lengthy, salty and tarry, with some darkish sweetness within the distance.
A bit peculiar once more, however a lot enjoyable. Dirtier than the Madeira model, for positive. When compelled to decide on I might decide the opposite one as a result of it’s extra typical for my part, however each are undoubtedly price discovering. Bought out, I imagine. Rating: 89/100
