Whisky Review/Tasting: 8 Seconds Black

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Although labeled as a Canadian whiskey, it is blended by Franklin Distillery in California, suggesting it might not be distilled there but rather blended.
Type: Canadian Blended Whiskey.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whiskey is aged for 8 years, but specific details about the distillation or maturation process are not provided.
Age Statement: 8 years old.
Color, Clarity, and Bottle Design: The bottle design features little bull riding cowboys, a normal cork, and a notably large opening for pouring. The packaging includes a barrel select number (0082) and an "easy open" feature that apparently does not work as intended.

Balance of Flavors: The whiskey presents a unique balance between sweet and spicy notes, with a short finish that doesn't linger long.
Unique Characteristics: A very strange sweet note reminiscent of vanilla ice cream or creamy candy, with a mocha gelato note that translates into a coffee note in the taste.
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but its unique flavor profile with a mix of sweetness, spiciness, and a short finish sets it apart.

Tradition: The name "8 Seconds" might refer to an old tradition where whiskey should be kept in the mouth for one second for every year it has matured, suggesting this whiskey should be savored for eight seconds.
Anecdotes: The lack of detailed information about the whiskey, aside from what's found on the bottle, adds a layer of mystery to the tasting experience.

Identity: Despite being a Canadian whiskey, it's blended in California, which might intrigue those interested in the cross-cultural blending of whiskey traditions.
Marketing: The phrase "not for the urban cowboy" on the website hints at a rugged, perhaps traditional or non-mainstream target audience.

"That's a very very strange sweet note."
"It's more of a deeper flavored whiskey."
"If you don't want to have a short intense journey of different flavors, this is the whiskey for you."

8 Seconds Black is an 8-year-old Canadian blended whiskey, with a unique and somewhat mysterious background, being blended in California.
It features a distinctive sweet flavor profile, with notes of vanilla ice cream and mocha gelato, transitioning to coffee, spiciness, and a bit of sourness in the taste.
The whiskey's name may be tied to a tradition of savoring it in the mouth, one second for each year of maturation.
Its identity and marketing suggest a non-mainstream, perhaps rugged appeal, not aimed at the "urban cowboy."
The tasting experience is marked by a short, intense journey of flavors, recommended for those looking for a unique whiskey experience.

For the Whiskey Adventurer: Individuals interested in exploring unique flavor profiles and the blending of cultural whiskey traditions.
For the Sweet Tooth: Those who enjoy sweet and creamy notes in their whiskey might find the vanilla and mocha gelato notes appealing.
For the Casual Drinker: Its short and intense flavor journey, coupled with a relatively mild 40% ABV, makes it accessible for casual whiskey drinkers looking for something different.