Hellyers Road Distillery Double Cask Single Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)

As the name suggests, 'Double Cask' spent five years maturing in American oak followed by a finishing period in French oak. Deeply scented, the nose offers rich vanillan oak, Ovaltine and hints of pickled ginger. The slightly grassy, bittersweet, warm-alcohol style of early Hellyer's bottlings is salient on the palate where a hint of sulphur and something almost metallic mingles with hot spices, the malt and sweet oak rebounding in a bittersweet finish. Tasted from a 50ml sample. 46.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Other reviews... As the new iteration of Hellyers Road's pinot noir cask whisky, Double Cask has a big job on its hands. But at under $120 for a 700ml bottle at 46%, they're already off to a flying start in terms of value. There's significantly more oak influence here, with the combination of French and American timbers shining through on the rich, dark, well-developed nose. Think green walnuts, cassia, autumn leaf litter and antique furniture. The palate is also dry and woody but with a great integration of spirit that carries through nicely and at great length. If you like oaky tannin and not a lot of sweetness but appreciate textural whisky, this is a solid drink for a super reasonable price. 88 points - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

Notes from the producers... Expect vibrant notes of raisin toast, stewed fruits and candied orange with a hint of clove.