Frysk Hynder Wine Cask Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Netherlands, near Lake IJssel and 30 miles from the North Sea.
Type: Single Malt Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Unique distillation process using a mash tun with copper plates for catalytic conversion, avoiding the need for a traditional pot still. Matured in a red wine cask, likely European oak, for nearly four years (2011-2015).
Age Statement: Approximately 3.75 years.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky features a dark horse on the label and a metal sculpture of a Frisian horse's head on the cork, symbolizing the whisky's name, Frysk Hynder.

Aroma: Fruity malt, dark cherries, caramel, maltiness, and sweetness. Described as pleasant and mild.
Taste: Spicy, intense oakiness, with a significant influence from the red wine cask, contributing to a complex flavor profile with a lot of tannins.
Finish: Well-balanced with a slight bitterness, chocolate notes, and a stronger presence of cherries. The bitterness is likened to dark, burnt coffee but vanishes quickly.

The distillery's innovative approach to distillation, utilizing the mash tun for both mashing and distillation, showcases their creativity and adaptability.
The limited warehouse space at the distillery results in a small production scale, emphasizing the exclusivity of Frysk Hynder whiskies.

Frysk Hynder, meaning Frisian horse, pays homage to the region's heritage and the iconic Frisian horse breed. The distillery's proximity to the sea and its challenging weather conditions may influence the whisky's character.

Horst Luening describes the whisky as "strange and different" but appreciates its uniqueness, stating, "It's well done but strange and different."
The influence of the red wine cask is highlighted as a significant factor in the whisky's flavor profile, with Luening noting the "heavy impact" on the palate.

Frysk Hynder Wine Cask is a unique single malt whisky from the Netherlands, matured in a red wine cask.
It features a complex flavor profile with fruity, spicy, and oaky notes, balanced by a slight bitterness in the finish.
The distillery's innovative distillation process and the cultural significance of the Frisian horse are notable aspects of this whisky.
Expert opinion appreciates the whisky's uniqueness and well-executed production, despite its unconventional characteristics.

Whisky Enthusiasts looking for unique and innovative whiskies with unconventional maturation processes.
Adventurous Drinkers interested in exploring whiskies from non-traditional whisky-producing countries.
Fans of Wine Cask Matured Whiskies who enjoy the complex interplay of whisky and wine flavors.