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94
/ 100
Tasting Notes
Amber Lane ‘Liquid Amber’ Single Malt Whisky 700ml
48% ABV | Australian Single Malt Whisky
A Symphony of Sherry and Sunshine
Amber Lane Distillery, nestled in the lush Yarramalong Valley of New South Wales, has swiftly garnered acclaim for its meticulous approach to whisky-making. Eschewing shortcuts, the distillery emphasizes long fermentations, deliberate distillation, and extended maturation in premium casks. This commitment to craftsmanship is evident in every bottle, and Liquid Amber stands as a testament to this philosophy.
Liquid Amber is a harmonious blend of single malts aged in a combination of ex-Pedro Ximénez (PX) and Australian Apera sherry casks, complemented by a touch of ex-bourbon cask influence. This trio of cask types imparts a rich tapestry of flavors, resulting in a whisky that is both complex and approachable.
On the nose, Liquid Amber offers an inviting bouquet of toffee, chocolate-coated honeycomb, and maple syrup, accented by orange zest, dried apricots, and figs. The palate is equally engaging, presenting a harmonious blend of ripe mango, guava, and liquorice, underpinned by aromatic oak and a hint of spice. The finish is long and satisfying, with a sweet cinnamon warmth that lingers gracefully.
This expression is not merely a whisky; it's a narrative of dedication and finesse. Liquid Amber encapsulates Amber Lane's unwavering pursuit of balance and depth, delivering a whisky that is both refined and resonant.
Tasting Profile
- Light
- Full
- Sweet
- Dry
- Smooth
- Complex
- Delicate
- Full Flavoured
Classification: Spirits
Variety: Whisky
Vintage: None
Bottle Size: 700ml
Country: Australia
Region: New South Wales, Sydney
Alcohol %: 48.0%
Cellaring: 15 Plus Years
Scores
94 / 100"Liquid Amber is designed to showcase the character of Spanish Pedro Ximénez and Australian Apera fortified wines, with just a splash of bourbon cask in the batch for balance. Despite all that massive sherry influence, the nose still has a nice freshness, with the freshly-opened box of sultanas note of PX jumping out of the glass. I love the combination of restrained European oak and the dustier, dryer timber of Australian fortified casks at play here, and the alcohol is well-controlled compared to other Amber Lane releases. Liquorice and dried rosebuds dance around with pear drops on the nose, with good integration and complexity at play. On the palate, PX sweetness up front leads to a wonderful throughline of fruitcake and creamy peach lollies, with a finish of lingering, gentle tannin. Wow, this really sticks the landing! There are far more expensive whiskies on the Aussie market that don't express sherry cask nearly this well, so bravo."
- James Halliday
