Waubs Harbour Port Storm Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml)

Awarded a Master medal, the highest accolade at the World Whisky Masters in 2023.

Waubs' marketing emphasis on being a truly maritime malt is not without justification. Perched on the rocks in Bicheno on Tasmania's East Coast, the distillery sits directly on the edge of the Tasman Sea. It's believed to be the world’s closest distillery to the ocean, surpassing Scotland's island equivalents which are located off relatively sheltered bays or coves. Even Old Pulteney which sells itself as 'The Maritime Malt' sits 400 metres inland. About two-and-a-half hours drive north-east of Hobart and based in an old oyster hatchery, Waubs Harbour currently has hundreds of casks maturing in five salt-laden bond stores with a cooling system run entirely by the ocean. The name is a nod to the former town of Bicheno and honours Wauba Debar, an Aboriginal woman known for her bravery. Co-founders Tim and Bec Polmear in partnership with Tim's brother, Rob Polmear come with a wealth of knowledge. Rob was formerly Head Distiller for Overeem Whisky and Head of Production for Lark Distillery and Tim and Bec's previous experience was in e-commerce. The distillery was officially opened by Tasmania Premier, Jeremy Rockliffe. Spirit began flowing from the stills in July 2019 and the inaugural release launched in April 2023.

In this expression, x-Bourbon barrels are set against ex-tawny port French oak casks, the latter bolstering the aroma with prunes, cherry chocolate and hints of Toblerone bar. Bigger, richer and more textural than Waub's entry level bottling, the purity of the malt is augmented by ripe plum and dried peel notes; Spices build but never overwhelm before bitter dark chocolate closes. The balance may not be quite as fine-tuned as the Original, but the trade off is considerably more impact and drive through the middle and finish. Another beautifully executed young whisky. Awarded a Master medal, the highest accolade at the World Whisky Masters in 2023. 48% Alc./Vol. Tasted from a 30ml sample.

Other reviews... The ex-Port casks kick in here, contributing some spice and savoury notes, yet tempered by the American oak so that they don’t dominate or overwhelm. too much. Again, it’s not overly challenging nor complex, and it makes for pleasant drinking. - whiskyandwisdom.com

Notes from the producers... NOSE: Sultana spiced jam meets rust. Heaps of vanilla, moving to toffee spices in the middle. Apply brandy, custard. Hot custard over a syrup of poached pear plump sultanas, and a glazed cherry drizzle on top of that cream. PALATE: Rich sultana and pear crumble sweetened butter, heaps of treacle, golden syrup mixed with dried stone fruit. Oak integration build up the supportive pantry spices and adds length while the 48% keeps it big oily and rich. FINISH: Lingering butter melted prune/sultana syrup. A touch of ex-Bourbon brings complexity to the spice profile. Great length.