A long time ago I posted my notes on the Penderyn Madeira cask, which was a lovely whisky, very sweet, and exotic. A short time afterwards Penderyn distillery were kind enough to send over a sample set consisting of this peated whisky, and a sherried expression. I tasted those a long time ago, but for some reason (senility,backlog) did not post them here. So here goes.
Penderyn Peated, NAS, 46% ABV, £36
Nose: A really different peat monster than I was expecting. The peat is here, no doubt, it’s very clear, but it’s masked by a very sweet, fruity, tropical smell. Strawberries, Ripe Melons mixed with some Rye (yes, I mean it , RYE!) notes. All very A-typical.
Palate: This is a young one, the peat is rather strong and in its prime. Don’t expect an Islay peat monster but this is potent fresh young peat. Some fruity notes here as well, some grassy notes as well. Not very rounded.
Finish: Peat, pepper,remains of the fruit (Apricot?)
Bottom line:
This is a very young, and not very complex Peated whisky from the Welsh guys at Penderyn. It’s not bad, but for that price you can get wonderful peated malts which are more mature, and convincing. I loved the Madeira, and this one is not in par with it in my opinion. If you love peated malts, and feel like experimenting, it’s a nice option, but don’t get your hopes too high.