Product Information:
TD0203 captures the essence of Sullivans Cove whisky beautifully. Aged for 16 years, 4 months in a 300 litre, French Oak Second-Fill cask. The distillery's spirit is on full display and thanks to the expertise during maturation process. This is an intricate single cask release, with gorgeous texture and a vibrant confectionery-driven bouquet. Bottled unflocked and unfiltered at 49.5% abv this cask produced a mere 402 bottles.
The Old & Rare French Oak Second-Fill single casks have been matured for a minimum of sixteen years in a cask made from French oak, that has previously matured Sullivans Cove whisky. Second-fill casks allow for long-term maturation without being overtaken by the influence of oak or pre-fill. The result is a whisky of perfect balance: the signature spirit character harmonises seamlessly with the soft oak profile, allowing the fruity esters from the copper Alembic still, Myrtle, to shine through. In addition to the notes of dark jammy berries, aromatic spice and bright fruit, these whiskies exhibit a depth and refinement that can only come from age. As single cask bottlings, every tiny batch is different, expressing the unique characteristics of each barrel.
Maker:
In 1994, on remote island at the far end of the world, a distillery was brought to life from humble beginnings. Away from the whisky establishment, Sullivans Cove were free to explore and perfect their process. Informed by the past and inspired by possible. Bringing a distinctly Tasmanian twist to a whisky craft, shaped by centuries of practice. 20 years later, their commitment to carefully crafting exceptional whisky, inspired by nature and patiently aged, was rewarded when Sullivans Cove was named the World’s Best Whisky. Overnight the secret was out. Special things were quietly happening on this small 'Apple Isle', and whisky lovers globally were intrigued.
In a world of instant gratification and impatient consumption, Sullivans Cove offer an alternative. Genuinely rare whisky which can’t be rushed and which can never be replicated.
Philosophy:
Distilled in Hobart, Tasmania, Sullivans Cove single malt is made using traditional methods and 100% Tasmanian ingredients. Inspired by nature and patiently aged, the distillers aim to seek the sublime. Each cask is nurtured to it's natural peak, thousands of tiny decisions go into helping each cask reach its full potential. No two batches will be the same and every batch an opportunity for exploration.
Tasmania has some of the cleanest water in world, making it an ideal place for producing world class whisky. Tasmania also has some of the best barley growing land in Australia. The combination of good water and good grain is the foundation of all high-end whisky.
100% Tasmanian malted barley is used to make all Sullivans Cove whiskies. The wash is brewed locally by brewers with decades of experience before being double distilled in a unique, Tasmanian built pot still (lovingly called Myrtle). The first distillation, known as the "wash run" produces "low wines" of about 20% abv. The low wines are then put back through the still for the "spirit run" to produce a spirt of around 70% abv. This spirit is then diluted to 63.5% abv before it enters into the casks for ageing. The majority of whiskies are aged in either 200L American oak ex-bourbon barrels, or 300L French oak ex-tawny barrels. Allowed to mature over many years in the unique Tasmanian climate - generally between nine and eighteen years.
Nose - Fruity Confection, Hazelnuts, Autumnal Notes
A vibrant, tropical and confectionary-driven bouquet opens. The classic, expansive fruity spectrum of Sullivans Cove spirit is ever present and enriched with unique mossy, farmyard nuances. Aromas of orange jelly, yellow starburst candies, and vanilla yogurt mingle with hazelnuts and hints of oregano. The oak is subtle yet full, imparting dark autumnal notes and creating a broad overall structure. Herbal accents continue to emerge, with clear notes of mint leaf lollies and lime – a combination evocative of Mojitos! Notes of old books rise from the base and point to the age of the whisky (and the age of the beautiful old oak it was matured in), and further citrusy-sweet touches of lemon and orange melt into an overall aroma of fresh homemade lemonade.
Palate - Stonefruits, Wildflower Honey, Gingerbread
Just beautiful. Full texture, waxy, incredibly rounded and broad. A flurry of stone fruits (warm peach and nectarine) rushes in. Immediately evident is the age. This is one impeccably well-integrated and textural whisky, something that can only be achieved through long-term maturation. The confectionery profile shines with orange jelly babies and gummy candies, complemented by citrusy and herbal top notes of lemon and thyme. A gingerbread note follows, bringing a sweet and spicy element. The palate is remarkably gentle, with the selected ABV of 49.5% carrying the flavours perfectly without any harshness. Additional notes of lychee, fresh moss, mint, and wildflower nectar add to the complexity.
Finish - Butter Menthol, Candied Orange, Tawny Notes
The finish is reminiscent of butter menthol and candied orange. Generous in length, and boasting the same waxy texture and broad structure all the way through. With time, dark tawny remnants emerge, while the ever-present Sullivans Cove spirit character reveals tropical notes of kiwi and pineapple.
Bottle Information
Barrel Number - TD0203
Bottle Number - Various of 402
Filled Date - 06/07/2007
Decanted On - 10/11/2023
The Finer Details
Style - Whisky
Country - Australia
Regon - Tasmania
Bottle Size - 700ml
ABV - 49.5%
