Gold Cock 20 years 1999/2021 | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Czechia, specifically the southeast region.
Type: Single Malt Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Matured in freshly burned out casks, relatively small at 290 liters, indicating a potentially higher wood-to-liquid ratio which can influence flavor complexity.
Age Statement: 20 years, distilled in 1999 and bottled in 2021.
Color and Clarity: Described as quite brown, uncolored, with the natural color being highlighted on the packaging.
Bottle Design: Noted for its modern glass cork with a plastic seal, a choice inspired by the wine industry in Central Europe to ensure quality and avoid the issues sometimes found with traditional corks.

Balance of Flavors: Presents a well-balanced profile with no bitterness or signs of over-maturation.
Unique Characteristics: Sweet oak and dark fruitiness are prominent, alongside the typical maltiness expected in a single malt whisky. The finish introduces a bit of dryness and spiciness, described as the right amount.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, it's implied that this whisky stands out, especially in contrast to other Eastern European spirits from the era before the fall of the Iron Curtain.

Distillery Background: The Gold Cock whisky is produced by the Rudolf Jelinek distillery, founded in 1894 and originally known for producing fruit schnapps, obs schnapps, and liquors. This distillery has the distinction of being the oldest brand from Czechia.
Historical Context: The reviewer has previously tasted a whisky from this distillery that was distilled before the fall of the Iron Curtain, providing a unique historical perspective on the evolution of the distillery's products.

Geographical Origin: The distillery's location in the southeast of Czechia and its long history contribute to the whisky's identity, showcasing the region's distilling traditions.
Historical Evolution: The transition from producing traditional fruit schnapps to crafting single malt whisky marks a significant evolution in the distillery's offerings, reflecting broader changes in the global spirits market.

"This whisky was astonishingly good... very well done."
"It's just on the top of maturation."
The reviewer expresses a strong preference for this 20-year-old expression over other Eastern European spirits tasted from the era before the fall of the Iron Curtain.

Gold Cock 20-year-old single malt whisky from Czechia offers a rich, balanced flavor profile with sweet oak, dark fruitiness, and a hint of spice.
Matured in freshly burned out casks of 290 liters, ensuring a unique flavor.
The distillery has a long history dating back to 1894, with a transition from fruit schnapps to whisky.
The modern glass cork design is a nod to quality and innovation.
Highly praised by the reviewer for its quality and maturation.

Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring single malt whiskies from non-traditional whisky-producing countries.
History Buffs: Individuals fascinated by the historical evolution of distilleries and the impact of geopolitical changes on spirit production.
Collectors: The unique bottle design and the distillery's storied background make this a compelling addition to any collection.