Den Hool DenHool 6 Year Old 2010 Drentse Single Malt

Den Hool started distilling in August 2015, but the bottle that was released in April 2016 is a distillate from 2010. It was triple distilled in pot stills by Patrick Zuidam in the distillery that bears his name. It is a vatting of refill bourbon casks and PX sherry casks, which explains the beautiful dark color. A Dutch single malt… there is something you don’t come across every day. I am curious! What a strange nose! Gingerbread, almonds and coconut take the lead. Loads of herbal touches as well. Cumin, candied ginger, camphor, raw rye (which must be imaginary as the mashbill is said to be 100% summer barley). It takes a while, but your patience is rewarded with sweet fruit like banana, mandarin and sweet pears. Flowery honey. This is surprising, but you have to take your time. The palate is syrupy and mouth coating. The first sip reminds me more of bourbon than single malt, to be honest. Again very spicy and sweet – a nice continuation of the nose. Although the fruit is a lot less outspoken. But the gingerbread is persistent. Good drinking strength, by the way. Surprisingly long finish on more of the same. Yes, good entrance! This is one to keep an eye on. Around 65 EUR.