Slyrs 12 Years

Whisky Review/Tasting: Slyrs 12 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Bavaria, Germany (specifically Upper Bavaria, Oberbayern).
  • Type: Single Malt Whisky.
  • Distillation: Initially produced on eau de vie equipment with pot stills and a rectifier, later on specialized whisky pot stills not from Scotland but from the southwest of Germany.
  • Maturation: Matured in first-fill American white oak barrels, charred, which is closer to bourbon whiskey but with a different taste profile due to the distillation process.
  • Age Statement: 12 years.
  • Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but implied to have a rich color extraction from first-fill American white oak, suggesting a deep, possibly amber hue.
  • Bottle Design: High-quality, unique bottle design, presented in an extraordinary case made from a single block of wood, with a miniature included for tasting while keeping the bottle as a collector's item.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Balance of Flavors: Dominant vanilla and toffee, with underlying oakiness, woodiness, and a faint fruitiness of dried and dark fruits.
  • Unique Characteristics: Intense oakiness with spices like cloves and nutmeg, and a nuttiness resembling walnuts. Described as one of the most intense single malt whiskies at 12 years old, especially among those matured straight without sherry, port wine, or other influences.
  • Comparison: Implied to be more intense than a typical 20-year-old Scotch whisky matured in ex-bourbon casks due to the fresh, first-fill American white oak barrels used for maturation.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Distillery Foundation: Founded in 2007, with roots tracing back to an old distillery at Schliersee in Oberbayern producing high-end fruit distillates.
  • First Distillation: The first distillation took place in 1996, with the first single malt whisky released in 1999, leading to the establishment of a dedicated whisky distillery.
  • Limited Production: The 12-year-old Slyrs is a limited edition with only a few hundred bottles available, making it a collector's item.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Bavarian Heritage: Emphasizes the Bavarian origin and the adaptation of traditional distillation methods to create a unique single malt whisky that stands apart from Scottish, American, or other whisky traditions.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • "One of the most intense single malt whiskies with 12 years old I had so far." - Horst Luening, highlighting the exceptional intensity and flavor profile of Slyrs 12 years.
  • "It is a real collector's item." - On the rarity and exclusivity of this whisky.

Summary

  • Slyrs 12 years is a unique single malt whisky from Bavaria, Germany, known for its intense flavor profile dominated by vanilla, toffee, and oakiness.
  • Matured in first-fill American white oak barrels, it offers a distinct taste that bridges the gap between bourbon and Scotch malt whisky.
  • The distillery has a rich history, evolving from producing high-end fruit distillates to specializing in whisky.
  • This limited edition is presented in an exquisite wooden case, making it a sought-after collector's item.
  • Described as exceptionally intense for its age, it stands out among straight-matured whiskies.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • Whisky Collectors: Due to its limited availability and unique presentation, it's highly recommended for collectors seeking rare and exclusive bottles.
  • Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a palate for intense, oak-forward single malts will appreciate its depth and complexity.
  • Fans of Bourbon and Scotch Crossovers: Individuals interested in whiskies that bridge the flavor profiles between bourbon and Scotch might find this Bavarian single malt particularly intriguing.