Introduction
The Hyde 1906 No 9 Iberian Cask is, of course, a port finished single malt. Triple distilled in a traditional copper still using 100% Irish malted grain barley from a single distillery.
Initially aged for a period of at least 8 years in ex-bourbon oak casks from Kentucky, this was then transferred into first-fill vintage tawny port oak casks sourced from the Portuguese village of Pinhao in the Douro Vally region in northern Portugal, for a finishing period of 9 months.
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On the Nose
Very fruity first impressions, with red berries, freshly squeezed orange juice, and some light banana, raspberries, vanilla, and blackberries. The sweetness of the fruit is contracted by a herby undertone, with coriander spice and even almond marzipan cutting through the sweetness.
On the palate
Initially a slight bitter wood note, but then into the fruity red berries I had on the nose. A very tart gooseberry note, which feels drying and bitter. There's a dry hazelnut finish to the mouthfeel, with a slight aftertaste of rubber.
Conclusion
In case you didn't pick up on the aftertaste, it wasn't to my liking. It was a very strange note to get from a whisky, and not one I've ever placed in a port finished liquid before. I've had rubber notes in Islay scotch before, but it was quite pleasant... this wasn't. I'm not overly convinced I liked this one, to be honest.
Want to try it for yourself?
Why not try Hyde No. 9 Iberian Cask 1906 Commemorative Edition for yourself? Well, sorry, but on this occasion, it wasn't available online that we could find! Check local retailers of rare and unique whiskey, you never know, you may get lucky!
This dram was tried via a Flaviar Christmas Advent Calendar. Interested in joining flaviar, a premium spirits club? You'll get premium tasting packs, full bottles of whisky, as well as early access to future Whisky Advent Calendars! You can find out more HERE.