Tomatin Cù Bòcan Creation #3 | Whisky Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Tomatin Distillery, Scotland.
- Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
- Distillation and Maturation Process: This whisky is part of the Creation series, which focuses on experimental and interesting cask combinations. Creation #3 is matured in a mix of Cabernet Sauvignon casks from Morocco and ex-Rye casks from North America.
- Age Statement: Not specified.
- Color and Clarity: The whisky has an intense color, more so than its counterpart, Creation #4. It is uncolored and non-chill filtered.
- Bottle Design: The bottle design has evolved from a clear bottle to one with an artsy representation of leaves or grains, suggesting a connection to the natural ingredients used in whisky production.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: Creation #3 is described as a complex whisky with a balance of smokiness, fruitiness, and exotic spices. The combination of Cabernet Sauvignon and ex-Rye casks contributes to its unique flavor profile.
- Unique Characteristics: Notable for its rose water, strawberry, black fig, exotic spice, citrus, and tropical fruit notes. The whisky is also characterized by its smoky overtone, bittersweet cacao notes, and a long, spicy finish.
- Comparison: Compared to Creation #4, Creation #3 is considered more complex, nuanced, and spicy, with a preference depending on individual taste for either the vibrant, fruity profile of #4 or the deeper, spicier profile of #3.
Whisky Storytelling
- Anecdotes: The hosts discuss the unique cask combination and the experimental nature of the Creation series. They also touch on the misconception about the term "rye" in the context of whisky versus whiskey.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Cask Origin: The use of Cabernet Sauvignon casks from Morocco highlights the global influence on Scotch whisky maturation, showcasing the distillery's innovative approach to flavor.
- Distillery Identity: Tomatin's Cù Bòcan series emphasizes the distillery's commitment to experimentation and exploration of unique flavor profiles through unconventional cask maturation.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "This tends to be a very complex whisky." - Ben, highlighting the complexity due to the unique cask combination.
- "It's darker, it has more spices in it, more baking spices...exotic spices hits it pretty well." - Discussion on the flavor profile.
- "This one is more of a strong old man's drink." - A personal preference indicating that Creation #3 might appeal to those who enjoy a more robust and spicy whisky.
Summary
- Tomatin Cù Bòcan Creation #3 is a complex single malt Scotch whisky matured in Cabernet Sauvignon casks from Morocco and ex-Rye casks from North America.
- It features a unique flavor profile with notes of rose water, strawberry, black fig, exotic spices, citrus, and tropical fruits, balanced with a smoky overtone.
- The whisky is part of the experimental Creation series, showcasing Tomatin's innovative approach to cask maturation.
- Creation #3 is described as more complex and nuanced compared to Creation #4, with a preference depending on individual taste profiles.
- The whisky is uncolored, non-chill filtered, and presented in a redesigned bottle that reflects its natural and artistic qualities.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- For the Adventurous Drinker: Those interested in unique, experimental whiskies will appreciate the innovative cask combination and complex flavor profile of Creation #3.
- For the Seasoned Whisky Enthusiast: Individuals with a preference for robust, spicy whiskies with depth and nuance will find Creation #3 particularly appealing.
- For Collectors: Given its limited edition status and unique characteristics, Creation #3 is a worthy addition to any whisky collection.