THREE SHIPS SHINES AT WORLD WHISKY AWARDS

The Three Ships Bourbon Cask Finish received the category award for the Best Rest of the World Blended Whisky at Whisky Magazine’s 2011 World Whisky Awards. More than 300 whiskies were tasted in a set of three tasting rounds, all vying for the coveted awards.

The annual World Whisky Awards includes a selection of the finest whiskies produced internationally and categories are based on style, process and production. Hosted by Whisky Magazine, the competition is chaired by Dave Broom, contributing editor of Whisky Magazine and editor-in-chief of Whisky Magazine Japan.

Master distiller, Andy Watts, says the award is an enormous recognition for a proudly South African product, especially since the whisky also recently received gold at the 2010 International Spirits Challenge.

“The Three Ships Bourbon Cask Finish is South Africa’s first whisky consisting of both malt and grain components which have been distilled and matured here. If you consider the large number of blends produced throughout the world, it is in my view a remarkable achievement not only for our whisky but also for South Africa.”

He says that after the initial maturation of three years, the final blend is matured for a further six months in first-fill bourbon oak casks, resulting in the slight honeyed sweetness on the nose.

“Considering the short period the whisky spent in the bourbon casks, we were amazed at just how much flavour was extracted. The whisky has a rich golden syrup colour and a soft, estery, warm nose. The slight honeyed sweetness with vanilla notes on the palate is complemented by subtle hints of pepper and spice. The finish is lingering, with a hint of flavour from the bourbon casks.”

The range of Three Ships whiskies are produced at The James Sedgwick Distillery in Wellington. Since the launch of the Three Ships Select just over two decades ago it has undergone several upgrades which has transformed it into a state-of-the-art distillery.

The Three Ships Bourbon Cask Finish is available from leading liquor outlets and retails for around R115.