Armorik is the only malt from Warenghem distillery in Bretagne (France). The distillery itself is the oldest in France. It dates again to 1900 however the single malt whisky (distilled on a pair of copper pot stills) got here later, with a primary launch in 1999.
A few years in the past they launched new bottles and labels. The core vary now contains Armorik Basic, Armorik Double Maturation and Armorik Sherry Cask. I’ve solely tried a indie Armorik from virgin oak thus far – time to vary that state of affairs!
The primary whisky we’re attempting is Armorik 10 12 months Outdated, a restricted version launched on the finish of 2018 (and getting a yearly version so far as I can inform). It’s matured in bourbon casks and completed in Oloroso sherry casks. The opposite one is a single cask Armorik 2009 Sherry, a restricted version unique to La Maison du Whisky.
Armorik 10 yo (46%, OB 2021, 3000 btl.)
Nostril: it is a malty and barely dusty profile, with good hints of bread, grist and delicate pepper. Then additionally apples, pears and calmly floral (new) wooden. Vanilla. One thing of a candy beer notice as nicely. Pretty impartial however nicely balanced.
Mouth: nonetheless displaying this grainy core, with an enormous dose of candy barley, mild notes of oranges and pears, vanilla and lightweight maple syrup. Hints of pine, giving it a ‘inexperienced’ edge. Within the distance you get some nutty notes and raisins, nevertheless it’s hardly recognizable as a sherry end.
End: medium size, with oak spice (pepper, ginger) and hints of orange cake.
This Armorik 10 has a slightly traditional malty profile, within the custom of Speyside whisky. A well-made on a regular basis drinker, if just a bit middle-of-the-road. Out there from The Whisky Trade as an example (additionally as a pattern in case you like).
Armorik 12 yo 2009 (57%, OB for La Maison du Whisky 2021, single sherry cask #3443, 701 btl.)
Nostril: rather more on walnuts and gingerbread – the sherry is having its say. On a second stage we discover dried apricots, hints of white grapes and a few cassis. Additionally candied orange peels. Beneath the sherry remains to be this gristy, barely dusty and earthy core.
Mouth: vibrantly spicy. White pepper, cloves, in addition to hints of juniper. Contemporary oak shavings. Then some raisins, toffee notes, stewed pears and hints of figs. Tobacco leaves and hints of chocolate in the direction of the top.
End: fairly lengthy, on nutmeg, delicate resinous notes, chilly espresso and ginger.
Fairly wealthy with a properly layered profile. That stated, similar to within the common 10 12 months Outdated the oak feels just a little fashionable and ‘on high’ of the spirit. Out there from La Maison du Whisky. Rating: 85/100
