Whisky Review/Tasting: Wemyss The Hive

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The Wemyss family, involved in the production of The Hive, is building the King's Barns distillery in the old kingdom of Fife, located in the east of the Lowlands.
Type: Blended malt whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The Hive is a 12-year-old whisky, indicating a significant period of maturation. It is mentioned that fresh and refill sherry casks are used, suggesting a nuanced influence from the cask on the whisky's flavor profile.
Age Statement: 12 years old.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky is artificially colored. The bottle design features a bee, symbolizing the honeyed characteristics of the whisky. The packaging includes a tin box and a leaflet emphasizing the art of blending.

Balance of Flavors: The Hive showcases a complex balance of flavors, with a notable sweetness and a hint of spiciness that fades quickly.
Unique Characteristics: It is distinguished by its honeyed flavors, butterscotch, toffee, and a backdrop of orange juice. The use of both fresh and refill sherry casks contributes to its complexity without overpowering the honeyed notes.
Comparison: Compared to single malt whiskies, The Hive is described as more complex due to the blend of 16 different malt whiskies from various distilleries, offering a broader range of flavors.

Interesting Stories: The Wemyss family's venture into whisky blending is highlighted as a prelude to opening the King's Barns distillery. The name "Wemyss" (pronounced Weems) means caves in Scots, linking the whisky to the family's historical seat at Wemyss Castle, which has a storied view of the sea for over 800 years.

Historical Context: The Hive's connection to the Wemyss family and the upcoming King's Barns distillery in Fife adds a layer of historical and geographical significance, tying the whisky to Scotland's rich distilling heritage and the scenic east of the Lowlands.

Opinions and Quotes: Horst Luening, the master taster, appreciates The Hive for its "beautiful complex aroma" and the artistry involved in blending malt whiskies from 16 different distilleries. He emphasizes that "Distilling is the craft, blending is the art," highlighting the creative process behind The Hive.

The Hive is a 12-year-old blended malt whisky produced by the Wemyss family, with a significant connection to the upcoming King's Barns distillery in Fife.
It features a complex flavor profile with honeyed notes, butterscotch, toffee, and a hint of orange juice, achieved through the use of fresh and refill sherry casks.
The whisky's story is intertwined with the Wemyss family's history and their efforts in the whisky industry, adding depth to its identity.
Expert opinions commend The Hive for its complexity and the skillful blending that brings together malt whiskies from 16 different distilleries.

Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with an appreciation for the art of blending and complex flavor profiles will find The Hive intriguing.
History and Culture Buffs: Individuals interested in the historical and geographical aspects of whisky production may be drawn to The Hive's connection to the Wemyss family and the Scottish Lowlands.
Beginners: Newcomers looking to explore blended malt whiskies beyond single malts might appreciate The Hive's approachable complexity and honeyed sweetness.