Bivrost Idunn (Aesir Series), 5 YO, 50%
This is the second release in Aurora Spirit's six-part Æsir Series, dedicated to the gods of Asgard. Bivrost Heimdallr was the first release in the series (see review). Four different types of barley were used to make the Bivrost Idunn:
“Nordic Pilsener Malt (Planet & Popino barley). Heritage Norwegian barley floor-malted by Bonsak. Maris Otter, classic English malt for rich, malty depth.”
The cask composition is explained as follows by the distillery manager:
“Distilled in 2018-2021. [..] Idunn was matured in Muscat, Californian, Tinto and Bordeaux wine casks, together with mezcal casks. Maturation age between 5 to 8 years.”
This is a limited release with a total outturn of 8083 bottles. It will be available to buy in Norway starting November 4 at NOK 970 (20873502).
Nose: First dried fruits, then earthy notes of dirt cellar and freshly turned black soil, followed by a wave of tropical fruits. In between all this, creamy vanilla, rich malt and floral honey make their presence felt. With time, the fruitiness gradually shifts towards gentler citrus notes, with orange zest and freshly squeezed mandarin juice. There is also a faint funkiness lurking in the background, which I find rather appealing.
Taste: Full bodied. Spicier in character now. Zesty, feisty and fizzy. Playful and borderline challenging, in a most enjoyable way. The same rich, multilayered fruitiness from the nose carries through, accompanied by a generous helping of warming spices. And there it is again, that intriguing little hint of funkiness.
Finish: Medium to long. The previously mentioned funkiness now morphs into sweet liquorice, white pepper, toasted oak and earthy vanilla. The spices and sweetness gradually settle, leaving a slightly green and herbal character towards the end.
Comment: Fruity, funky and delightfully feisty.
Score 89/100
This is Nordic whisky review #523 here on Whisky Saga. See them all here.
Sláinte!
-Thomas
