In the universe of whisky, the Scottish highlands, the verdant fields of Ireland, and the southern states of America have long held sway. But it's time to set our sights northwards, to a Scandinavian revelation, Mackmyra Brukswhisky. Mackmyra, Sweden's first whisky distillery, continues to defy expectations with its innovative approach, marking an undeniable presence in the whisky landscape.
Today, we delve into the captivating essence of Mackmyra Brukswhisky, a truly remarkable spirit that’s full of surprises.
Unboxing the Brukswhisky, you’re greeted with a minimalist bottle design, exemplifying the Scandinavian philosophy of less is more. The packaging whispers of understated elegance and craftsmanship, setting the stage for the amber nectar nestled inside.
Pouring the whisky into a glass, you are met with a vibrant, golden hue. The colour, a delicate straw-like yellow, hints at the all-natural process Mackmyra passionately adheres to. Holding it up to the light, it shimmers and dances, offering a visual spectacle before the tasting even begins.
Bringing the glass to your nose, the Brukswhisky introduces itself with a bouquet of aromas that hint at its complexity. The initial whiff is a cornucopia of light, fruity notes. Pears, citrus, and apples mingle with a honeyed sweetness, followed by soft vanilla undertones. The oak casks’ influence is evident, adding a touch of spice, and a whisper of toasted bread to round off the symphony of scents.
As you take your first sip, the Brukswhisky unfurls its panoply of flavours across your palate. The fruitiness hinted at in the aroma takes centre stage. But this isn’t a one-note wonder. There’s depth to this whisky. The initial fruitiness is beautifully balanced by the rich flavours from the bourbon casks, which bring forth vanilla and a hint of coconut. The presence of the Oloroso casks contributes an additional complexity with subtle notes of dried fruit and spice.
The mellow sweetness of the Brukswhisky, a result of its aging in American oak, is a wonderful counterbalance to the slightly spicier, fruity notes. These flavours slowly give way to a hint of creamy toffee and the refreshing spice of ginger, revealing layers upon layers of complexity.
The Brukswhisky’s finish is delightfully long and warming. It leaves a gentle, spicy tingle on the tongue, with lingering notes of oak and a reminiscence of fruit compote, urging you to reach for another sip.
This whisky is incredibly well-balanced. Mackmyra has masterfully orchestrated a delicate interplay between the fruity notes, the vanilla-infused sweetness, and the subtle hints of spice. At 41.4% ABV, it’s strong but not overpowering, making it both a perfect choice for the whisky novice and a delightful surprise for the seasoned aficionado.
Pair the Brukswhisky with a plate of creamy cheeses, or a dessert with a touch of vanilla or caramel. It also works remarkably well in a cocktail, its vibrant character standing up well to other flavors.
In conclusion, Mackmyra Brukswhisky, this enchanting Nordic Elixir, is a testament to the distillery’s commitment to craft, quality, and innovation. It takes you on an immersive journey through the sublime landscapes of Sweden, narrated by the harmonic dance of fruits, spices, and sweetness. This whisky is not just a drink, it’s an experience, a Scandinavian tale told in the universal language of outstanding whisky.
So, here’s to Mackmyra Brukswhisky, skål!
RRP: From £47 for 70cl. ABV: 41.4%. Available from: Master of Malt, Amazon and Waitrose
