Whisky Review/Tasting: Syndicate 58/6 12 years
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Produced by Douglas Lang in Glasgow, Scotland.
- Type: Blended Scotch Whisky.
- Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky is a blend of 18 single malt whiskies and four single grain whiskies, utilizing a solera system for maturation. It is finished in Oloroso sherry casks for a year.
- Age Statement: 12 years old.
- Color and Clarity: The whisky is colored with caramel, a common practice, though not always disclosed.
- Bottle Design: The bottle and its packaging were not described in detail, but it comes with a cup box that narrates the whisky's story.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: The whisky offers a rich and intense taste profile, with a good balance between fruity, floral, and spicy notes.
- Unique Characteristics: Notable for its use of the solera system, typically associated with sherry, which incorporates older whiskies for complexity.
- Comparison: While specific comparisons were not made, the whisky's quality and flavor profile make it stand out among blended whiskies, especially given its solera maturation process.
Whisky Storytelling
- Historical Anecdote: The whisky's origins trace back to 1958, with a blend discovered in Edinburgh, enjoyed by royalty and British aristocracy. The name "Syndicate 58/6" comes from a group of six individuals who formed a syndicate to share this whisky.
- Production Process: The solera system used for maturation is highlighted as a unique aspect, contributing to the whisky's complexity and continuity of flavor.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Historical Significance: The whisky has a rich history, with roots going back to the 1800s and connections to British royalty and aristocracy.
- Geographical Origin: Its production in Glasgow and the discovery of the original blend in Edinburgh tie it closely to Scotland's whisky heritage.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- Horst Luening's Opinion: Despite not typically favoring blended whiskies, Luening regards Syndicate 58/6 as one of the good ones, appreciating its smooth, silky taste and the high malt content.
- Noteworthy Quote: "Hedonistic harmony" is used to describe the whisky's flavor profile, emphasizing its indulgent and well-balanced nature.
Summary
- Syndicate 58/6 is a 12-year-old blended Scotch whisky, finished in Oloroso sherry casks.
- Utilizes a solera system for maturation, incorporating older whiskies for added complexity.
- Features a rich and intense flavor profile with notes of orange, bergamot, honeyed pear, ginger, jasmine, dundee marmalade, glazed apple, caramel, figs, and forest fruits.
- Has historical significance, with a story dating back to 1958 and connections to British royalty.
- Despite the reviewer's general preference for single malts, Syndicate 58/6 is praised for its quality and flavor.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in the history and unique production processes of whisky will appreciate the solera system and the story behind Syndicate 58/6.
- For Blended Whisky Skeptics: Individuals who typically prefer single malts might be pleasantly surprised by the complexity and quality of this blend.
- For Fans of Sherry-Finished Whiskies: The Oloroso sherry cask finishing provides a rich flavor profile that will appeal to those who enjoy the influence of sherry on whisky.