#Whiskytasting #Kavalan
Kavalan Triple Sherry Cask Single Malt
EN/English.
For several years now, I haven’t quite managed to overcome my reservations toward spirits produced in Asia. The vast differences in climate and consequently in barley quality, humidity, and temperature regimes during maturation along with the distinct characteristics of the wood and, last but not least, the traditions and expertise in malting and distillation… none of this can be overlooked.
Yet, being an appreciator of fine whisky requires one not to fixate solely on good old Scotland and its neighboring „Old World“ destinations. It is clear to everyone that producers in Asia and Australia are now very much part of the global whisky scene. The presence of Japanese, Indian, and Taiwanese brands on our market is substantial and simply impossible to ignore.
This year in March, I had the good fortune of attending the opening of a Kavalan bottle that is rather hard to come by in Bulgaria, and I must admit I was pleasantly surprised. So, now that the „Triple Sherry“ has reached my hands, I no longer have any excuse not to expand The Malt Symphony portfolio to include this world-renowned distillery.
Presentation from the distillery site.
ABV: 40%. Origin: Yilan County, Taiwan.
Maturation: No Age Statement (NAS), but matured for a minimum of 3 years utilizing a triple sherry cask profile: Oloroso (for structure and nutty depth), Pedro Ximénez / PX (for rich, velvety sweetness and raisins), and Moscatel (for fresh, floral, and honeyed character).
- NOSE
Ripe red berries, dried figs, raisins, dates, toffee, milk chocolate, cinnamon, and subtle floral nuances.
- PALATE
Velvety and smooth – dried fruits, caramel, honey, blood orange, clove, and Christmas fruitcake.
- FINISH
Medium-long with notes of roasted nuts, toasted oak, dark chocolate, and cocoa.
Tasting notes of The Malt Symphony.
Degustation date: 21.8.2026
- COLOUR
Rich, dark amber with warm caramel hues. The whisky displays noticeable density and a concentrated structure right in the glass.
- NOSE
Intense and focused, and while not overly broad in its variety, it exudes a sense of serious maturity. The initial impression is driven by a dense honeyed sweetness, followed by rich orchard fruit aromas—specifically apricot and peach jam. A fresh citrus hint (orange and/or mandarin) lingers in the background. The influence of the oak here is subtle, creating the impression of a noble, well-aged spirit and immediately drawing an analogy to the cognac-like elegance of a 15-year-old GlenAllachie.
- PALATE
It is quite rare for the palate to present such a striking contrast to the nose. Upon tasting, you are immediately greeted by savory malt and prominent oak. The sweetness from the nose persists, but here it transforms into the character of a freshly baked honey cake. The composition takes on a full-bodied turn with fine notes of leather and freshly roasted coffee.
- FINISH
Medium in length and intensity. It leaves a very pleasant, clean memory on the way out without ever being intrusive or overwhelming.
- HIGHLIGHTS
This is the second exquisite Kavalan expression I have tasted, and it officially eliminates all my lingering skepticism regarding Taiwanese distilleries. A solid, refined whisky with versatile appeal: Digestif: The perfect final touch to an official or friendly dinner; Welcome Drink: An elegant choice for greeting guests at a special event; Toast: An excellent companion for celebrating a successful business deal.
