Whisky Review/Tasting: Rothaus Black Forest

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Rothaus Black Forest whisky originates from the Black Forest, a mountainous region in the southwest of Germany.
Type: It is a unique whisky produced by a brewery, Rothaus, which traditionally makes a famous beer called Tannenzäpfle.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky is made from a special beer without hops, distilled at a state-owned distillery, Kammerkirsch, using pot stills typically used for eau de vie. After distillation, it is matured in ex-bourbon casks in old ice cellars at the brewery.
Age Statement: The whisky is aged for three years.
Color and Bottle Design: The specific color of the whisky is not described, but the bottle design includes information about the distillation and bottling dates, along with tasting notes. The pot stills used in production are reminiscent of those at Glen Grant.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a balance between sweet, fruity, malt, and cereal notes with underlying vanilla, fruit, and spice flavors.
Unique Characteristics: It has a very fruity top note, making it resemble more an eau de vie than a traditional malt whisky. There's a slight metallic note and a very distant oakiness and spice, with the fruitiness fading away in taste.
Comparison: Due to its unique production process and flavor profile, it stands out as an untypical whisky, especially when compared to traditional malt whiskies.

Production Background: The brewery gave up its distillation license a century ago and now collaborates with Kammerkirsch distillery for the whisky production. This partnership and the use of beer without hops for distillation contribute to the whisky's unique story.
Historical Aspect: The Rothaus brewery has a long history, established in 1791, adding a rich historical layer to the whisky.

Black Forest: The whisky is deeply rooted in the cultural and geographical context of the Black Forest, known for its natural beauty and traditional craftsmanship, which is reflected in the production of this unique whisky.

"It's more an eau de vie than a malt whisky." - This quote highlights the unique character of Rothaus Black Forest whisky, distinguishing it from more traditional whiskies.
"Very untypical whisky made in Germany" - Emphasizes the whisky's distinctiveness in the global whisky landscape.

Rothaus Black Forest is a unique German whisky with a three-year age statement, produced by a brewery in collaboration with a state-owned distillery.
It features a balance of sweet, fruity, malt, and cereal notes, with a flavor profile leaning more towards an eau de vie.
The whisky's production story and its connection to the Black Forest region add to its uniqueness and appeal.
It is described as an untypical whisky, highlighting its distinctiveness from traditional malt whiskies.

Whisky Enthusiasts Looking for Unique Finds: Those interested in exploring unconventional whiskies with unique production stories.
Eau de Vie Lovers: Individuals who appreciate the fruity and smooth characteristics typical of eau de vie might find this whisky intriguing.
Collectors: Given its limited availability and distinctive profile, collectors seeking rare and unusual whiskies might be particularly interested.