Whisky Review/Tasting: Aichinger No.13

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Aichinger Distillery, located 50 kilometers from Passau, near the Danube in Austria.
Type: Wheat whiskey.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured in fresh casks made from Hungarian oak (Quercus frainetto), which is noted for being milder and less spicy than French oak but not as mild as American white oak. The whiskey is stored in barrique casks, indicating a specific size but not previously used for wine.
Age Statement: Not specified.
Color and Bottle Design: The whiskey is presented in a dark, broad, and narrow bottle, which gives it a darker appearance. The bottle design is described as fancy, with a two-layer folder upon opening, and it features a screw cap to avoid cork issues.

Balance of Flavors: A well-balanced whiskey with a subtle dryness and mouth-watering sweetness.
Unique Characteristics: The whiskey starts with a fruity profile, including notes of grapes and potentially berries like blackberries, and evolves into darker flavors of chocolate and cacao with hints of vanilla and oak. The use of 100% wheat makes it exceptionally smooth.
Comparison: It's compared to other wheat whiskies, noting its high smoothness, with a specific mention of Maker's Mark and a few Heaven Hill bottlings for their high wheat content.

Production Insight: The Aichinger distillery, traditionally a farm producing wine and juices, is delving deeper into whiskey production. The No. 13 is part of their new releases in Europe.
Personal Touch: The bottles were directly brought to the reviewer by the producer from Austria, indicating a close relationship and direct involvement in the distribution process.

Austrian Distillery: Aichinger is highlighted as an Austrian distillery expanding its portfolio into whiskey, showcasing the growing interest and expertise in whiskey production outside traditional regions.

"Unexpectedly fruity, no wine casks in there. It's all fresh casks."
"It's very well balanced between a subtle dryness and a mouth-watering sweetness."
"100% wheat whiskies are very smooth."

Aichinger No. 13 is a wheat whiskey from Austria, matured in Hungarian oak casks.
It features a unique flavor profile that transitions from fruity to darker chocolate and cacao notes.
The whiskey is noted for its smoothness and balance between dryness and sweetness.
The distillery's background as a farm diversifying into whiskey production adds an interesting narrative.
The whiskey is well-received for its quality and presentation, with a direct connection between the producer and the reviewer.

For Whiskey Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring wheat whiskies and unique maturation processes.
For Smooth Whiskey Lovers: Individuals who prefer a smooth, well-balanced whiskey with a complex flavor profile.
For Adventurous Drinkers: People looking to try whiskey from non-traditional regions, especially from Austria.