Eifel Whiskey - German 8 Year Single Malt 2021 Edition

Nose: Subtle malty, cereal notes, light woodsmoke up the nostrils. Doesn’t smell like any particular single malt I’ve had, yet is clearly a single malt. It’s pillowy soft. Deep caramel notes open with air as does cream soda syrup.

Palate: Caramel-forward, black pepper toffee. Lightly numbing on the tip of the tongue, orchard fruits and fruitwood over the front and eventually the whole tongue. Astringency joins late on the back palate. Mouthfeel is medium-bodied, silky at first and turns heavier and spicier as it sits and settles into the corners of my mouth. Drinks about 10 points above proof.

Finish: Caramel apples with a healthy dose of vanilla and black pepper. Sweet, lovely and fun to drink.