Whisky Review/Tasting: Preussischer Whisky

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The whisky originates from the Uckermark region, north of Berlin, Germany, which is notably the home country of the German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
Type: It is a single malt whisky, indicating it's made from malted barley at a single distillery.
Distillation and Maturation: This whisky is bottled at natural cask strength from a single cask (Cask No. 29, Bottle 347), with a bottling date of October 1st, 2014. It has been matured in fresh American white oak barrels, which is not the standard first-fill after bourbon but entirely new oak.
Age Statement: The whisky is 3 years old.
Physical Description: The bottle is half a liter, with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 55.6%. It features a horse on its label, which is a nod to the distillery's origins from an old horse stable. The horse appears to be flying due to its mane, but a closer look reveals a Prussian spiked helmet, symbolizing its Prussian heritage.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a unique balance between the characteristics of a Scottish single malt and an American bourbon, though it leans more towards bourbon due to the use of fresh American white oak barrels.
Unique Characteristics: Despite its bourbon-like nose, the absence of maize or corn results in a less sweet profile than typical bourbons. The inclusion of the entire grist in the fermenting process, including the bran or peel of the barley, introduces a slight spiciness, distinct from the oak's influence.
Comparison: It is described as lying between a Scottish single malt whisky and an American bourbon, with a notable absence of the typical bourbon sweetness.

Distillery Background: The distillery was founded by Cornelia Born from the ruins of an old horse stable, which is reflected in the bottle's design. Horst Luening, the mastertaster, mentions being invited to the opening of the distillery in 2010 but was unable to attend.
Symbolism: The Prussian spiked helmet on the bottle symbolizes the whisky's Prussian heritage and is historically a military countermeasure.

Prussian Heritage: The whisky is deeply rooted in Prussian history, from its origin in the Uckermark region to the symbolic Prussian spiked helmet on its label. This heritage adds a layer of historical and cultural significance to the whisky.

Horst Luening's Opinion: Luening appreciates the whisky's unique position between a Scottish single malt and an American bourbon. However, he expresses concern over its high price point, especially for a 3-year-old whisky, and hopes for a reduction in price as the distillery produces more whisky.

German single malt whisky from Uckermark, north of Berlin.
Matured in fresh American white oak barrels, 3 years old, 55.6% ABV.
Presents a balance between Scottish single malt and American bourbon characteristics, with a unique, less sweet profile.
The distillery has a unique background, being founded from an old horse stable.
The whisky celebrates Prussian heritage, notably through the spiked helmet symbol on the bottle.
Luening appreciates the whisky but notes its high price point for its age.

For Bourbon Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring bourbons might find this whisky intriguing due to its bourbon-like characteristics without the typical sweetness.
For Single Malt Scotch Lovers: Individuals who appreciate the complexity of single malts may enjoy the unique profile and the craftsmanship behind this German whisky.
For Collectors and History Buffs: The rich historical and cultural significance tied to the Prussian heritage, along with the unique story of the distillery's foundation, makes this whisky a compelling addition to any collection.