Whisky Review/Tasting: Boxing Hares

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The spirit drink, named Boxing Hares, incorporates blended grain Scotch whisky.
Type: It is classified as a spirit drink rather than a whisky due to its alcohol content being only 35% ABV.
Distillation and Maturation Process: It is a blend of grain whiskies from several distilleries.
Age Statement: No specific age statement is provided.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the focus is more on the unique combination of ingredients.
Bottle Design: Features illustrations of boxing hares, a nod to the rare sight of hares boxing in the fields. The back label depicts a hare boxing at a hop, symbolizing the unique blend of grain whisky and hops.

Balance of Flavors: Dominated by the aroma and bitterness of hops, overshadowing the grain whisky's contribution.
Unique Characteristics: The addition of hops from American craft beers and German hops from Hallertau introduces a beer-like bitterness and aromatic taste, making it distinct from traditional whiskies.
Comparison: The flavor profile is unique due to the hops, setting it apart from malt whiskies and other spirit drinks. The bitterness of the hops is the most intense flavor, making it an unequal pairing with the grain whisky.

Interesting Stories: The name "Boxing Hares" is inspired by the rare sight of hares boxing in the fields, which is reflected in the bottle's design. The spirit drink is a product of Whiskey Union, a company that aims to innovate within the spirits market.

Historical Context: Hops were historically added to beer to prevent bacterial growth, a practice that has continued for centuries. The use of hops in this spirit drink connects it to the traditional beer-making process, despite whisky traditionally being made from "straight beer" without hops.

Personal Opinions: The reviewer, Luni Horst Luni, expresses a personal dislike for the beer-like bitterness introduced by the hops, indicating a preference for traditional whisky flavors.
Noteworthy Quotes: "The hops are much more powerful than the grain whisky," and "It's quite pleasant in the mouth but as soon as you swallow and empty your mouth then the bitterness arises."

Boxing Hares is a unique spirit drink blending grain Scotch whisky with American and German hops.
Dominated by a beer-like bitterness due to the hops, overshadowing the grain whisky.
Inspired by the rare sight of hares boxing, reflected in the bottle's design.
Aimed at innovating the spirits market, potentially targeting the US market.
Reviewed as having a unique but challenging flavor profile, especially for those not fond of beer's bitterness.

Beer Enthusiasts: Individuals who enjoy craft beers and are open to exploring spirit drinks with a beer influence might find Boxing Hares intriguing.
Whisky Adventurers: Whisky enthusiasts looking for something entirely different from traditional whiskies may appreciate the unique blend of flavors.
Novices to Spirits: Newcomers interested in exploring the wide range of flavors within spirit drinks might find Boxing Hares a curious introduction, though the bitterness may be challenging.
Traditional Whisky Lovers: Those with a preference for classic whisky flavors might find Boxing Hares too divergent from their usual tastes due to its dominant hop bitterness.