Whisky Review/Tasting: Peat's Beast PX Sherry Finish

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The specific distillery is not disclosed, but it's suggested to possibly be from Bunnahabhain, Islay, based on the process of elimination and characteristics of the whisky.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Finished in Pedro Ximenez (PX) Sherry casks, which adds a layer of complexity and sweetness to the whisky. The whisky is unchill filtered and has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 54.1%.
Age Statement: Estimated to be between 3 to 5 years old, based on the tasting notes and discussion about the preservation of smokiness through minimal oxidation.
Color and Bottle Design: Not explicitly described, but the focus is on the intense peatiness and the PX Sherry finish, which would typically influence the color to a richer, darker hue.

Balance of Flavors: Dominated by intense smokiness, with underlying sweetness and sherry notes that are somewhat overshadowed by the peat.
Unique Characteristics: Extremely peaty and full-bodied, with a ferocious intensity. The PX Sherry finish adds a layer of complexity, though it's noted that the sherry influence is subtle compared to the overwhelming smokiness.
Comparison: Compared to other Peat's Beast expressions, this PX Sherry finish variant is noted for its additional layer of sweetness and complexity, though the peat remains the dominant characteristic.

Anecdotes: The discussion includes an interesting tidbit about the origin of the name "Pedro Ximenez," comparing it to the Siemens corporation, and a unique story about smoking hams in a wooden oven, drawing a parallel to the smoky character of the whisky.

Historical Context: The PX Sherry casks used for finishing the whisky tie it to a rich tradition of sherry production in Spain, specifically mentioning the early maturation process of Pedro Ximenez sherry that retains a high level of residual sugar.

"This is the limit for me in terms of smokiness." - Reflecting on the intense peat level of the whisky, which is at the upper threshold of the reviewer's preference for smokiness.
"Extremely smoky and so oxidization hasn't taken place." - Discussing the young age of the whisky and its impact on preserving the smoky character.

Peat's Beast PX Sherry Finish is a single malt Scotch whisky, possibly from Bunnahabhain, Islay.
Finished in Pedro Ximenez Sherry casks, unchill filtered, with an ABV of 54.1%.
Estimated age is 3 to 5 years, focusing on preserving intense smokiness.
Dominated by peat, with subtle sweetness and complexity from the PX Sherry finish.
Unique storytelling includes the origin of "Pedro Ximenez" and an anecdote about smoking hams.
Cultural significance tied to the tradition of sherry production in Spain.
Noted for being extremely peaty, at the limit of the reviewer's preference for smokiness.

Peat Lovers: Ideal for those who enjoy intensely peated whiskies and are looking for something with a high level of smokiness.
Adventurous Drinkers: Suitable for whisky enthusiasts interested in exploring the impact of PX Sherry cask finishing on a heavily peated whisky.
Experienced Whisky Drinkers: Recommended for those with a palate accustomed to high ABV and complex flavor profiles, seeking a challenging and distinctive whisky experience.