Whisky Review/Tasting: Baltach Wismarian

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Wismar, a northeastern town in Germany, historically part of the Hanseatic League.
Type: Single Malt Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Distilled from a unique, hop-less beer known as "Jubilee Mumme." Matured for three years in classic oak casks with a finishing period in Fino sherry casks.
Age Statement: No specific age statement, but mentioned to be matured for three years and a few months.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the packaging includes an interesting label design with cuts, making it distinctive.
Bottle Design: Noted for its unique label, a plastic cork, and specific bottle numbering (e.g., bottle number 401 of 450, bottled on 2014 October 14th).

Balance of Flavors: Described as having a smooth vanilla note, with a significant impact from the Fino sherry cask finish contributing to a fruity and slightly dry profile.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky is made from a special beer without hops, leading to a distinct base for the single malt. The fresh oak contributes a lot of spiciness, and there's a noticeable metallic youthfulness.
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but its unique production from hop-less beer and the youthfulness might set it apart from more traditional single malts.

Historical Background: The distillery traces its roots back to a brewery established in 1400, with a rich history interrupted by the communist era in East Germany.
Production Anecdotes: The whisky is distilled from "Jubilee Mumme," a traditional beer without hops, which is a nod to the cooler climate of northern Germany where hops are not as necessary for beer preservation.

Hanseatic League: Wismar's history as part of this significant medieval commercial and defensive confederation adds depth to the whisky's story.
Brewing Tradition: The transition from brewing to distilling in a town with centuries of brewing history highlights the cultural heritage of the region.

Horst Luening's Opinion: While praising the nose and palate, Luening notes a "metallic youthiness" in the aftertaste that detracts slightly from the overall experience. He expresses optimism for the whisky's future as it matures longer.
Quote: "This is a wonderful single malt in terms of nose, palate but in the aftertaste this little youthness is a little bit too much."

German Single Malt Whisky from Wismar, with a rich historical background.
Distilled from a unique, hop-less beer, matured for three years with a Fino sherry cask finish.
Flavor profile includes smooth vanilla, fresh oak spiciness, and a slight metallic youthfulness.
The whisky's production and story are deeply tied to the cultural and geographical significance of its region.
Expert opinion appreciates the whisky's qualities but notes room for improvement with age.

Whisky Enthusiasts Interested in Unique Production Methods: The use of hop-less beer as a base will intrigue those curious about unconventional distilling ingredients.
Fans of Young, Spirited Whiskies: Individuals who appreciate the vibrant, youthful characteristics in whisky might find this single malt appealing.
Historical and Cultural Aficionados: Those who enjoy whiskies with a rich backstory and cultural significance will appreciate the Baltach Wismarian's connection to Wismar and its brewing heritage.