Part IV of “No Age Statement  Week”

Mackmyra NAS Special ’03 (48.2%, OB, ‘Winter 09/10)

Small casks, big flavour it proclaims on the box of Svensk Single Malt Whisky using small 30 litre casks from three types of wood ex-sherry, ex-bourbon and new Swedish oak. From their two recipes proclaims the box.

The nose is strong and slightly perfumed followed by some dry…something…wood notes, oak spice, saw dust? Unsure however it is pleasant and not off putting and certainly different. Also roses and a hint of pot-pourri or herbs? A little hand warming intensifies the aromas and brings forth more wood notes. The small casks seem to have contributed  a significant amount. A single moment of raspberry jam. The taste is leathered and backed by tobacco along with pepper and then some malt sweetness and coal smoke. It’s good but perhaps the small casks have contributed a touch to much to the spirit? The finish is warming, long and quite fragrant. A touch of the pot-pourri and some juniper to go along with the pepper and finally some good malt. However after 5 minutes the finish turns a little unpleasant and is slighly dirty and bitter.

Either mildly confused or simply a new style. The addition of water does not change anything.

C$92

Score 78 points