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WHISKY JOURNAL
5 unmissable whiskies to enjoy in BBQ weather
5 unmissable whiskies to enjoy in BBQ weather
- June 23, 2021
With the full warmth of summer final here (well, most of the time), the draw of a BBQ is, for many, too much to resist. Whisky pairs perfectly with the smokey and bold flavours - there’s a dram to perfectly match with everything from a decadent Tomahawk steak, to exotic delights like pineapple, or even elevating a seafood and shellfish.
Jura 10
There is one bottle you simply can’t ignore while you’re up for a summer barbecue. It pairs incredibly well with the hot weather and is a perfect pre and post barbecue dram to get you in the mood. It is a very balanced dram and could be a great partner for a cigar on the side.
Nose
Sweet danish pastries with almonds. Honey, earthy and lavender notes. Juicy peaches for a rich and sweet nose.
Palette
A smooth palate, spicy oak, fragrant and lavender once again. Cedar wood and lots of baked fruit. It is a very allround dram
Finish
It has a warm and fruity finish. Pineapple and vanilla on top, lemon zest, cedar and an earthy whiff. A balanced dram but it has enough depth to keep you interested!
Laphroaig 10yo
A barbecue needs some peat doesn’t it? We think a Laphroaig is exactly what you need! The strong and fresh character comes to full power if you combine it with some seafood. But, if you’re not into fish yourself, the best you can do is pair it with some chicken breast. You can even ‘spray’ some Laphroaig on your steaks to take it to a higher level. We’ll slip an extra shrimp on the barbie for you!
Nose
Salty and smoky, medicinal so to say. Lemons, Orchard fruits and apricots.
Palette
Licorice roots and some sort of a grilled bell pepper. Apples, pineapple, apricots and lemon are also on the palate. Charred oak and barley for a rich and strong base.
Finish
The smoke is still there, along with copper, earthy notes and tropical fruits. A salty sea breeze is hanging around.
Bowmore Vault Edition - First Release
Let’s be honest with you, a Bowmore should not be missing during a nice and cosy summer barbecue. This Bowmore Vault Edition - First Release might be your best pick. The well known tropical Bowmore character is a great companion for your Tomahawk steaks but also goes along with all the other things on your grill.
Nose
Obviously some tropical scents on the nose with papaya and kiwi. Salty/maritime as it should be. Vanilla pudding, citrus and straight out the ocean Atlantic cod with soy sauce.
Palette
Creamy, rich and fruity. Here’s the Atlantic sea salt. Typical Bowmore kiwi seasoned with curry. Some vanilla to cover the sharp edges.
Finish
A warming finish, toffees, kiwi, and orange peel. Salty with some copper. It has something of a campfire on the beach during a summer night. Light up the fire!
Bunnahabhain Toiteach A Dhà
When the weather is too bad to throw a barbecue, why not sip a dram that embodies one? Bunnahabhain Toiteach A Dhà, which translates to “Smokey the second” (there was another release before this), is almost like a tropical shashlik with chicken, mushrooms and pineapple. Mmmm.
Nose
Grilled pineapple and a touch of kiwi, moist old wood, a bit muffled. Salt and pepper betray a young age.
Palette
Classical Islay, with vibrant citrus fruits, licorice root and soft medical flavours. Bunna’s character shines through in the form of smooth and warming orchard fruits.
Finish
Medium to long with a touch of sherry, with subtle hints of sultanas, but fresher and saltier flavours play first fiddle. Licorice root, old leather, iodine and burnt plastic. It’s a bit fungal in a good way. A taste of struck matches remain.
Benromach Cask Strength Batch 1
Oh no, forgot the sauce? No problem, Benromach’s got you covered. It’s not for the faint-hearted, with its 57.9% ABV, but we can’t think of a better companion for a barbecue. Bring on lots of meat and heat.
Nose
BBQ-sauce, spices and candle wax, smokey wooden chips, cherries and subtle salty peat
Palette
Oily and briny, slightly drying, with red fruits and a beautiful salty coating
Finish
A campfire and charred meat, salted ham and candle wax, there’s a pleasant finale in the form of sherry infused oak and strawberries.
