Teeling 18 Year Old The Renaissance Series No 5 – Calvados Casks

The previous four releases from the so-called Renaissance Series – in which their 18-year-old malt is always finished in a different cask type – all appealed to me. And here is number five, the last in the series, I let myself be told. The finish took place in barrels in which Calvados previously matured. But can you still speak of a finish, when you know that it first matured for 12 years in former bourbon barrels and then another 6 in Calvados barrels? That's more of a double maturation, right? Since I am also very fond of Calvados, this could just be right up my alley again.

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, this nose is excellent. The Calvados here translates into clear notes of apple cider, supplemented with vanilla and cinnamon. Intensely sweet, though. Some late raisins and a hint of pineapple on its own juice. This is 100% my genre.

Also on the palate it is apples in all shapes and appearances, while something softly floral spreads over my taste buds. Grain cookies in the background, just like soft wood spices. Think licorice and a pinch of white pepper. Even a lost grain of salt. Very good and 100% Irish style.

The finish is long, sweet, fresh, spicy (even piquant for a moment) and 100% satisfying.

This costs about 130 EUR. And it’s 100% worth it. Thx, Benny!