Armorik Double Maturation
Whisky Breton Single Malt
46% ABV
$60
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What the Distillery Says
Whisky Breton Single Malt
Genuine symbol of the Distillery’s values, this Armorik highlights both the quality of its know-how and its attachment to the Breton land. In partnership with a local cooper, the Distillery designed unique Brittany oak casks. Armorik Double Maturation remains in them for many long years before being transferred into Oloroso sherry casks for a second maturation. Reduced to 46% and non-chill filtered, it pleases through its richness and elegance.
Nose: Fruity and elegant, it has wonderful citrus and apple notes, highlighted by salted butter caramel fragrance.
Palate: Fine woody notes rapidly changed on to cereal ones, all with an unsuspected fullness.
Finish: Touches of heather honey perfume, the finish in the mouth is sustained by the cereals and pleasant marine notes.
What Gary Says
Nose: Soft malt, fresh cut hay, apricots, over-ripe pears, subtle vanilla, apple pie (without cinnamon), hints of oak and leather with floral perfume.
Palate: Creamy mouthfeel, rich fruity sweetness up front with apples, pears, peaches and honey; sharpens in the mid-palate with vanilla, pepper and citrus spice.
Finish: Moderate to long in length, wet with honey and citrus notes lingering with some freshly ground pepper.
Comments: I think this is the first French single malt I’ve tried, and it is quite lovely – and priced fairly. Sweet but balanced, rich and well executed. No age statement, but this doesn’t strike me as being young. If you’re a serious whiskey geek and hadn’t ever tried any whisk(e)y from France, I’d put this in the ‘Must Try’ category. If you don’t really care about provenance, and are looking purely at the enjoyment for the buck – this is a solid single malt.