Whisky Review #63 – Three Ships 15-Year-Old Pinotage Cask Finish
The Three Ships 15-year-old Pinotage Cask Finish is the first whisky in the world to finish in a pinotage cask. The Pinotage is a uniquely South African wine made in 1925 by Abraham Izak Perold. The whisky is the oldest whisky released in South Africa to date. Andy Watts specially crafted this whisky to reflect the unique heritage of South Africa. The whisky is rich and complex.
The Pinotage Cask Finish is not a single malt. It is a blend of malt and grain whiskies which were matured separately in American casks for 15 years before being finished in eight Pinotage casks. Due to the higher climate in South Africa, the whisky extracts flavours from the casks faster than usual. It resulted in a whisky that feels much older than 15 years old.
Let’s check out the review.
Tasting Notes:
Colour: Dark Amber
ABV: 46.2%
Nose: Tropical fruits and plums hit the nose with “Juicy Banana” chewing gum notes following right after. Sweet Pinotage earthy notes linger in the background. (18/20)
Palate: Robust, earthy notes combine with banana and pineapples coats the palate beautifully. The whisky is dense and full-bodied. The spice is gentle on the palate even at 46.2% abv. (19/20)
Finish: It has a medium to long finish with warm spice and tropical fruits lingering in the mouth. (17/20)
Body: The whisky is well-balanced and consistent throughout. The earthy notes from the Pinotage cask are special and create an interesting experience. (33/40)
Total Score: 87/100
Comments:
Geek Flora: “This is the first time I tried the Three Ships 15 YO, and I am impressed with the Pinotage Cask Finish. The earthy notes from the cask add an element of surprise to the otherwise sweet whisky. The complexity is fair but not as good as the 10 Years old single malt, even at a higher age statement. The selling point is the unique Pinotage finish, and you should try it if you have not.”
Where to buy: If you are looking to purchase this bottle, you can find it at Quaich Bar, Singapore’s first whisky bar. Alternatively, visit their online store at www.whiskystore.com.sg to get it delivered to your doorstep.
