Mackmyra Svensk Rök Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Sweden, specifically from Mackmyra's Gravity Distillery.
- Type: Single Malt Whisky.
- Distillation and Maturation: The distillery began distillation in 2011, with the first drop of Mackmyra whisky produced in 1999. The whisky is matured in a mix of American oak, Swedish oak, and ex-bourbon casks that have been saturated with Oloroso sherry. The casks range from 30 to 128 liters, promoting rapid maturation due to the increased surface area contact.
- Age Statement: Not explicitly mentioned, but implied to be relatively young.
- Color and Clarity: Light golden color, with no artificial coloring and not chill-filtered.
- Bottle Design: Comes in a half-liter bottle, with Swedish descriptions and imagery of the Gravity Distillery on the label.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- General Profile: Lightly smoky and spicy, with a unique Swedish smoky expression influenced by juniper rather than traditional peat.
- Balance of Flavors: Features a balance of dry smoky aromas with light tobacco leaves, herbs, and a slight mineral saltiness, complemented by anise and green fruit.
- Unique Characteristics: The use of juniper for smoke, rather than peat, and the combination of small cask sizes contribute to its distinct flavor profile.
- Comparison: Less smoky compared to whiskies from Islay's south coast, with a smokiness level around 30 (on an unspecified scale). It also has notes of caramel, light vanilla, and a hint of juniper.
Whisky Storytelling
- Distillery: The Gravity Distillery is highlighted as the cleanest, tidiest, and most perfect distillery the reviewer has ever seen.
- Production Notes: The use of juniper instead of peat for smoking the whisky is noted as a unique and innovative approach, reflecting the local flora.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Swedish Ingredients: Made exclusively with natural Swedish ingredients, emphasizing the whisky's national identity.
- Innovation in Smoking Process: The substitution of juniper for traditional peat moss reflects a creative adaptation to the local environment and resources.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "It's not that smoky as you know it from Islay's south coast."
- "This might be Juniper. Yeah, a hint of Juniper."
- "It's a young whisky. It's not that complex. It shows distinct, straight aromas."
- "What an idea."
Summary
- Mackmyra Svensk Rök is a Swedish single malt whisky with a unique flavor profile due to its use of juniper for smoke.
- Matured in a variety of small casks, including American oak, Swedish oak, and ex-bourbon casks saturated with Oloroso sherry.
- Features a light golden color, with a flavor profile that includes notes of peach, juniper, oak, tobacco leaf, herb, salt, anise, and green fruits.
- The Gravity Distillery is praised for its cleanliness and efficiency.
- The whisky is described as young, with a straightforward flavor profile and a mild smokiness compared to traditional peated whiskies.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring non-traditional smoking methods and unique flavor profiles.
- For Beginners: Its mild smokiness and straightforward flavors make it accessible to those new to smoky whiskies.
- For Collectors: The innovative use of juniper and the cultural significance of using only Swedish ingredients may appeal to collectors looking for unique whiskies.