Product Information:
As one of the oldest Australian single malt whiskies ever released, this bottling is a true piece of whisky history and has incredible texture, complexity and length of palate.
Batch TD0020 was filled in February 2005 and matured until April 2023, totalling 18 years and 2 months of aging. This single cask, a 200-litre American oak barrel, was seasoned by an older batch of Sullivans Cove single malt. Second-fill casks like this one allow for extended maturation without overwhelming the whisky with excessive oak influence or pre-fill. The resulting whisky achieves a perfect balance: retaining its signature spirit character while integrating a gentle oak influence. This balance allows the fruity esters from their copper Alembic still, named 'Myrtle', to prominently feature in the flavour profile. As single cask bottlings, this is one of only 178 bottles. Every tiny batch is different, expressing the unique characteristics of each barrel.
Each bottle comes in a unique, hand made, solid oak presentation box, and includes a letter of authenticity signed by their Distillery Manager. TD0020 captivates with its intricate depth and velvety texture. A shining example of meticulous aging, showcasing remarkable complexity without overwhelming the palate. Sweet, savoury, perfectly balanced and elegantly restrained, TD0020 invites you to sit with and embrace this incredibly warming whisky.
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 - Caramelised Orange, Apricot Roll-ups, Almond Butter
Enticing aromas of caramelised orange, apricot roll-ups and sweet almond butter greet the senses. A touch of pleasant warmth emerges with subtle notes of orange blossom and hints of soy candles. The classic Sullivans Cove spirit notes emerge with warm tropical fruits and whispers of waxy peach.
Palate - Pecan, Biscotti, Bergamot
The texture is luxurious, with sweet pops of fondant icing and apricots. Marzipan dances on the palate, followed by the nutty richness of Brazil nut and pecan. Subtle nuances of biscotti dipped in milky tea emerge, with hints of linseed oil adding complexity. A touch of rose water adds further complexity to the narrative.
Finish - Pastry Puffs, Hot Chocolate, Toasted Apricots
The robust finish culminates as the delicate sweetness of pastry puffs and dried cacao intertwine with the comforting warmth of hot chocolate and toasted apricots. There is a wonderful creamy texture here that lingers on the palate - a pure delight.
Bottle Information
Barrel Number - TD0020
Bottle Number - 162 of 178
Filled On - 07/02/2005
Decanted On - 19/04/2023
The Finer Details
Style - Whisky
Country - Australia
Region - Tasmania
Bottle Size - 700ml
ABV - 47.6%
