Nordic whisky #230 - High Coast Quercus IV Mongolica

High Coast Quercus IV Mongolica, 6 YO, 50.8 %

This is te fourth and last expression in the Quecus series from High Coast Distillery, where the focus is on finishes using different types of oak.

I have previously reviewed the Robur, the Alba and the Petraea. Now it is time for the High Coast Quercus IV Mongolica.

All minute details can be found here, but I have included the key facts below:

• Age: 6,81 years

• Phenol content PPM: 0

• Casks used:

  • Initial maturation for 3.53 years in 200 litre 1st fill ex-bourbon casks

  • Finished for 39 months in 225 litre new Asian oak (Quercus Mongolica) casks

  • Topped up with a 99 litre 1st fill quarter cask containing 7,27 YO whisky

• Number of Bottles: 6 228

• Bottle Size: 50 cl

The High Coast Quercus IV Mongolica is available to buy in Sweden at SEK 799 (467402).

Nose: Scrumptious! On one side there's fresh, green apples, tinned pears and vanilla. Then it turns around and presents itself with sandalwood, cinnamon, incense and earthy notes. Before it it spins on and we're back with the apples and pears. This is dizzying and enjoyable.

Taste: Medium to rich in character. Borderline bitter-ish upfront. Hard notes of polish, new leather and mint. Then softer notes of apples and vanilla. Warm sand, ginger and black pepper.

Finish: Medium long finish. Remains rather dry throughout. Reminds me of the Swedish candy polkagris - hard candy with peppermint flavor. Cool and slightly green on the finish.

Comment: An odd one for sure. Way different from any High Coast whisky I've had before.

Score 86/100

Sláinte!
- Thomas