Kittling Ridge Canada Gold

Forty Creek has become the darling of whisky connoisseurs who otherwise wouldn't admit to actually liking Canadian whisky. What some might not realize is that there is no Forty Creek distillery; the whisky is produced at Kittling Ridge, which also produces a few other whisky brands, among them Canada Gold. Some confusion here: at the distillery I tried a whisky called Pure Gold, which was quite a different product from this. In any case, it seems that Pure Gold is out, and Canada Gold is in.

The nose is familiar from other Kittling whiskies: honied grain, wood char and an earthy quality. It is fairly light and simple but has a richness to it, a malty sweetness and perhaops a hint of sherry, that likens it to Forty Creek Barrel Select.

The whisky is light-bodied and supple; it slides down easily. Starts off with honey but firm grains and minerals take over. There is a good spirity bite as well. It definitely lacks the character of Barrel Select and even Mountain Rock. But there is nothing unpleasant about it, and it's easy to drink.

It improves on the finish, bringing back honey and some dried fruit. It is, however, quite short. A sniff of the empty glass shows a lot of toffee, and some toasted nuts.

I can't deny that this whisky succeeds in its category. It is smooth enough to drink straight, goes fine on the rocks and is an acceptable mixer, though it doesn't shine through like Crown Royal seems to in mixed drinks. It fits in well with other cheap Canadians and has just enough character to maintain its identity.