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95
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Tasting Notes
Amber Lane 'Noble Lane' Single Malt Whisky 700ml
57% ABV | Australian Single Malt Whisky
A Symphony of Cask Influence
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 Noble Lane stands as a testament to this philosophy.
Noble Lane is a single cask expression that began its maturation journey in an ex-Heaven Hill 200L bourbon barrel (Cask No. 007) before being finished in an Australian Botrytis Semillon cask (Cask No. 147). This dual cask maturation imparts a complex array of flavors, resulting in a whisky that is both rich and nuanced.
On the nose, Noble Lane offers an inviting bouquet of buttery cake and vanilla, complemented by subtle hints of floral notes and sweet cereals. The palate is equally engaging, presenting a harmonious blend of warm gingery spice, custard tart, and honeycomb, underpinned by a creamy texture that lingers gracefully. The finish is long and satisfying, with a lingering sweetness that leaves a lasting impression.
This expression is not merely a whisky; it's a narrative of dedication and finesse. Noble Lane 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 %: 57.0%
Cellaring: 15 Plus Years
Scores
95 / 100"I love whiskies matured in sweet white wine casks. I'd crawl over glass for a Sauternes cask-aged Springbank. So naturally, I'm an advocate of Australian whisky distilleries using wonderful sweet white wine casks (like botrytis semillion casks) to mature whisky and balance ex-bourbon casks. Whiskies like this are, unfortunately, rare. However, with Noble Lane as one of Amber Lane's core products, this whisky will allow more Aussies to try the style. The flamboyantly welcoming nose of frangipane, Passiona and marzipan here is what this style of whisky is all about, so we're off to a good start, and with time in the glass, the high-alcohol is nicely subdued. Oak and grain are also present, balancing the fruit and florals. These honeyed floral notes continue through to the palate, and while this isn't perhaps the most complex whisky in the world, it's light, bright and fun while still maintaining a serious palate weight and grip thanks to the high ABV, yet with almost zero burn. This is a cracking whisky and something I hope Amber Lane keeps as part of their offering moving forward. Also, $225 for a 57% whisky under Australia's brutal spirits tax regime is very reasonable."
- James Halliday
