Koval Lions Pride Single Barrel 100% Organic Rye Whiskey (750ml)

The Lion’s Pride range of whiskies from Koval distillery (Est. 2008) represent an interesting project in micro distillation. Founders, Robert and Sonat Birnecker, gave up academic careers to bring the distilling traditions of Robert's Austrian grandfather to America. Five organically grown grains (Rye, Oat, Wheat, Millet, and Spelt) are harvested locally for distillation into single grain whiskies. A portion of each batch is put aside without aging, the remainder matured in new American Oak barrels from The Barrel Mill in Minnesota. The wood for each barrel is carefully selected for the fineness of its grain and its tannin content, then examined before and after being cut by a skilled cooper. Koval only use the barrels once.

Aged for one to two years, these single barrel expressions are aged in two different ways: 'European style' in barrels with a light toast that allows the distillate to shine, while the dark expressions are aged 'American style', in barrels with more charring that ages the whiskey faster and tends to result in a more robust flavour.

We found the differences to be fairly subtle. There's a common lightness and sweetness to the range that bares similarities to several feather weight blends from Scotland - less the peat. All the Lion's Pride whiskies are non chill-filtered with no artificial colouring, certified organic and kosher.

Tasting note: 100% Rye matured in a light char cask. The very pale straw gold appearance is almost water like in the glass. Opening whiffs resemble vinyl. Blows off to reveal appealing notes of poached apple / apple pie; some sweet spices too. A light, silky entry leads into a medium dry, light weight profile with hints of unripe pear evident towards the finish. Whisper light spices add a sense of warmth. Concludes light, dry and a little short. A nice fresh style nonetheless. 40% Alc./Vol.