Whisky Review/Tasting: Vit Hund

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Sweden, specifically from the Mackmyra Distillery located north of Stockholm.
Type: Raw whisky, also referred to as "white dog" in the context of bourbon whiskey production in the US.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The Vit Hund is a raw distillate with no cask influence, meaning it has not been aged in barrels and thus lacks color and the flavor complexities derived from maturation.
Age Statement: None. It is a new make spirit, directly from the still into the bottle, with zero days of aging.
Color and Clarity: Colorless, distinct from being white, which emphasizes its lack of maturation in casks.
Bottle Design: Comes in a half-liter bottle, sealed with a plastic cork topped with a metal cap.

Balance of Flavors: The Vit Hund has a very one-dimensional flavor profile, lacking the complexity and smoothness found in aged whiskies.
Unique Characteristics: It carries the raw character of the distillery, with a notable presence of yeast and hidden fruitiness, including citrus and grapefruit notes. However, these flavors are not very prominent.
Comparison: Far less smooth than a typical single malt whisky with 46% ABV that has been aged, as it is strong and aggressive on the palate with a metallic youthfulness.

Anecdotes: Horst Luening, the master taster, shares a personal use for a high ABV raw spirit, which he uses for cleaning his shaver, highlighting its high alcohol content and practical applications beyond consumption.
Trivia: The name "Vit Hund" translates to "White Dog" in English, drawing a parallel to the term used in the US for raw whiskey.

The Vit Hund represents a Swedish take on the concept of "white dog" or raw whiskey, showcasing the distillery's raw character and offering a glimpse into the initial flavors before the influence of cask aging.

Horst Luening describes the experience of tasting the Vit Hund as having "a metallic youthness" and being "strong and aggressive on your tongue," contrasting it with the more familiar and friendly aroma reminiscent of a working distillery.
Luening's personal reaction to tasting it on the tongue is summarized as "Horrible!" indicating a strong preference for the complexities and smoothness imparted by cask aging.

The Vit Hund from Mackmyra Distillery in Sweden is a raw, unaged whisky with a colorless appearance and a one-dimensional flavor profile.
It offers a unique opportunity to experience the raw character of the distillery, with notes of yeast and hidden fruitiness.
The lack of cask influence results in a spirit that is strong, aggressive, and less smooth compared to aged whiskies.
The review includes personal anecdotes and a cultural comparison to the American "white dog," highlighting the global nature of whisky production and consumption.

Whisky Enthusiasts Interested in Distillation Processes: Those curious about the raw flavors of whisky before aging.
Experienced Drinkers Looking for a Challenge: Individuals seeking to explore the stark differences between raw and aged spirits.
Mixologists: Creative bartenders who might use the unique profile of Vit Hund as a base for innovative cocktails.