Copperworks introduce Ardbeg-finished whiskey
American spirits producer Copperworks Distilling has released 331 bottles of a peated cask single malt, finished in an Ardbeg Scotch whisky barrel.
The latest single cask release has been matured for three years in a charred new American oak barrel, before being transferred into an Ardbeg Scotch whisky cask for one year. "If you enjoy rich smoky whiskeys, this one is for you," said Jason Parker, co-owner and president of Copperworks Distilling. "Although this release only gets its smoky flavour from the cask (not the barley we used to brew it), it has a much more heavy smoke flavour than our Washington Peated Whiskey Release 042.” Parker explained that while the Washington Peated Whiskey has more savoury and earthy notes, this new release has more of the traditional Islay Scotch smokiness. He recommends tasting the two together for comparison. Hints of morning campfire, blackberry and balsamic can be sensed on the nose of the whiskey. On the palate, the liquid delivers notes of roasted apples, caramelised sugars, dried fruit, and vanilla. The finish contains flavours of brisket, iodine and red vines. "As Ardbeg uses some of the highest levels of peat smoke in the Scotch whisky industry, the flavour really shines through, even though it is only the residual flavour of the cask," said Jeff Kanof, co-owner and vice president of Copperworks Distilling. "However, the whiskey's sweetness from the primary maturation balances the heavy smoke from the Ardbeg cask." Bottled at 50%, the Copperworks Peated Cask American Single Malt Whiskey Release 043 retails for US$76.49. Only 331 750ml bottles have been produced. Earlier this year, the spirits producer secured US$2 million through crowdfunding to build its new restaurant, bar and brewing facility in Washington, US.
