Penderyn Rhiannon

 

 

 

46° 

Distillery : Penderyn - Wales

Buffalo Trace Bourbon Barrels and Oloroso Hogsheads, Grand Cru French Red Wine Finish

Original Bottling

Limited Edition

Single Malt 

Bottled in 2019

Unchillfiltered, Uncoloured

Totally Unpeated

 

 

 

In 2012, Penderyn came up with the idea of launching a range of 50 different bottlings, called Icons of Wales, at the rate of one a year. This should take us up to 2061, except that we're already behind schedule, as we're still waiting for the 8th edition, which should have been released last year. So this Rhiannon is the latest icon to pay tribute to all the key figures and events in this amazing region of Wales. Rhiannon means "great queen" in Middle Welsh, and is a female character from the mythical story The Mabinogi, written between the 14th and 15th centuries, but whose oral tradition dates back to antiquity. She is a strong, free woman who refuses to marry the man she has been promised.

Let's Taste It : 

A bitter note, like ginger ale. Wood glue. It's quite mineral, rocky, with some rare herbs. A slight sweetness in the background, on soft caramel, quince paste. Candied chestnut. A few hints of iodine and citrus, which eventually dominate. Dried fig, salt shards. On the palate, lemon, limestone, ginger, a hint of lychee and wood. But it's light overall. The finish is quite long and syrupy, but not so powerful. A touch of acid and vanilla. Wood peel and charcoal. Fine sand.

In Short, 

It's not bad, I like this slightly austere minerality. On the other hand, I think it lacks a bit of personality. The finish in Sherry casks and French wine casks is barely noticeable, which is a shame.

Score : 83

                                           To Be Listened While Sipping :

                                           Fleetwood Mac - Rhiannon