J.B.G. Münsterländer Sherry Matured Single Malt Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Germany, specifically from the lower Rhine area close to the town of Bocholt.
Type: Single Malt Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Distilled in 2010 and bottled in 2014, making it approximately 3 years old. Matured in Oloroso sherry casks made from American oak, which is noted for being milder and more elegant than European oak.
Age Statement: 3 years.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the sherry cask maturation typically imparts a richer color.
Bottle Design and Details: The bottle is from cask number 22, being bottle 237 out of 445. It was a single cask hogshead, indicating a higher ABV content.

Nose: Fruity sherry note, dark chocolate, vanilla, and caramel.
Taste: Hint of sherry, malty, dark chocolate, vanilla, and caramel, with a very little maltiness and a slight spiciness from the cask. The American oak contributes to a smoother, milder flavor profile.
Finish: Very long and mellow, with a medium to long aftertaste that is pleasant and mouth-watering.

The distillery has been a family business for 175 years, specializing in distilling homegrown grain. This tradition gives their spirits a unique character. They also produce a German Korn, a white spirit, which requires careful distillation to avoid a metallic youth in the spirit.

The Münsterländer Sherry Matured Single Malt Whisky is significant for being one of the few German whiskies, showcasing the country's growing interest and expertise in whisky production. The distillery's location amid meadows and fields in the Münsterland region and its long history of distilling contribute to the whisky's unique identity.

Horst Luening, the master taster, describes the whisky as a "real masterpiece" for its age, appreciating its smoothness, fruitiness, and the absence of a metallic note. He expresses curiosity about how the whisky would develop with more years of maturation.

Originates from a German distillery with a 175-year history.
Matured in American oak Oloroso sherry casks for approximately 3 years.
Flavor profile includes fruity sherry, dark chocolate, vanilla, and caramel, with a very long and mellow finish.
Described as a "real masterpiece" for its age, showcasing a smooth and fruity character.
Highlights the growing expertise in whisky production outside of traditional regions like Scotland.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring non-traditional whisky-producing countries.
For Sherry Cask Fans: Individuals who appreciate the influence of sherry cask maturation on whisky.
For Beginners: The smooth and mellow profile makes it accessible for those new to whisky tasting.
For Collectors: The limited bottle count and unique origin might appeal to collectors looking for something different.