Hellyers Road Distillery 7 Year Old Single Peated Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)

Carrying a decent age statement for an Australian whisky, this is a slightly different expression to Hellyer's early peated efforts. The smoke is perhaps uniquely Tasmanian, being vaguely herbal or more like a distant, damp campfire than the kind of sweet peat-reek you'd expect from a smokey Highlander or traditional Islay. The distillery's grassy-papaya character is evident, the phenols are merely suggested, but combined with an approachable mouthfeel it adds up to an easy introductory style with minimal water heightening the experience. American oak matured. 46.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill-filtered.

Other reviews... The new flagship peated release from Hellyers is proudly seven years old, and I applaud them for being up-front about the age where many Aussie producers would be scared to put a single-digit number on the label. The fact is, seven years in Australia is a very long time to mature a whisky, well above industry standard, so they're right to celebrate the fact out loud. At just $149 a bottle, this competes directly with all but the cheapest Scottish imports. It holds its own, with restrained smoke and buttery, salted shortbread on the nose, woolshed in the summer woodiness and underripe orchard fruits. Very easy drinking with incredibly well-controlled alcohol and an easy, light finish. A fantastic example of how a Scottish style can be interpreted through an Australian lens. 93 points - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

Notes from the producers... Nose - Upon the nose, sweet tea and brine notes tantalize the senses, followed by a delicate balance of sea salt, oyster shell, green leaf, and fresh bark. Subtle whispers of campfire embers intertwine with a hint of medicinal allure in the background. Palate - On the palate, a smooth and textural journey unfolds, with fresh peat leading the way alongside herbal tones, smoked leaf, and the essence of oyster. A touch of honey sweetness gracefully rounds out the palate, delivering a sophisticated richness that coats the senses with unparalleled elegance. Finish - As the journey culminates, a medium-length finish continues to enchant, resonating across the palate with effortless smoothness. Experience the perfect harmony of balance and refinement in this impeccably crafted peated single malt whisky.

Gold Medal - San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2024