Big Peat Sherry Finish Rock Edition

Big Peat Sherry Finish - Rock Edition | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Islay, Scotland.
  • Type: Small batch Islay blended malt whisky.
  • Distillation & Maturation: This edition is sherry finished, a rarity for the Big Peat brand.
  • Age Statement: Not specified.
  • ABV: 48%.
  • Color: Dark, indicative of sherry influence.
  • Clarity: Non-chill filtered and non-colored, suggesting a natural appearance.
  • Bottle Design: Features an illustration of a fisherman with a big nose playing a guitar, symbolizing the Rock Edition theme. Limited to 1200 bottles, making it a collectible.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • General Profile: Sweet and phenolic with a prominent bonfire note, not overly peaty.
  • Unique Characteristics: The whisky combines 40 ppm smoke with a sweet, fruity sherry note on top, creating a balanced and complex profile.
  • Balance of Flavors: The 40 ppm peat smoke harmonizes with the intense whisky taste, allowing for immediate appreciation of the aromas from the first sip.
  • Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its unique sherry finish and Islay origin set it apart.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Part of Big Pete's World Tour, the Rock Edition is the 12th bottle, specially made for Germany.
  • The bottle's design, featuring a fisherman at a rock concert, tells a story of its theme and exclusivity.
  • Horst Luening, the senior taster, emphasizes the collaboration and selection process by their company, highlighting the personal touch in creating this edition.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Islay whiskies are renowned for their peaty character, and Big Peat Sherry Finish - Rock Edition is a testament to this tradition, with a unique twist through sherry finishing.
  • The World Tour concept celebrates global appreciation for Islay whiskies, with this edition spotlighting Germany.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • "This is sweet phenolic with bonfire notes...not this stinky, just rarely burning, smoldering paint. No, this is bonfire note in it. With a sweet, fruity sherry note on top." - Horst Luening
  • "So this has to be wonderful because we did it together." - Reflecting on the collaboration and selection process for this special edition.

Summary

  • Big Peat Sherry Finish - Rock Edition is a limited, small batch Islay blended malt whisky with a sherry finish.
  • It features a unique flavor profile combining sweet, fruity sherry notes with a bonfire peatiness, balanced at 40 ppm.
  • The whisky is part of Big Pete's World Tour, specifically made for Germany, and showcases a special bottle design.
  • Cultural significance lies in its Islay origin and the global appreciation for such whiskies.
  • Expert opinions highlight the unique collaboration and selection process, as well as the distinctive flavor profile.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • Peat Lovers: Those who enjoy peaty whiskies but are looking for something with a unique twist will appreciate the balance of smoke and sherry.
  • Collectors: Limited to 1200 bottles, this edition is a must-have for collectors, especially those interested in unique bottlings or Islay whiskies.
  • Sherry Finish Enthusiasts: Whisky fans who appreciate the complexity added by sherry finishing will find this blend intriguing.
  • Beginners with a Bold Palate: New whisky drinkers who are not intimidated by peat and are eager to explore complex profiles might enjoy starting with this distinctive blend.