Ninth Release
2024 IWSC – 94pts
“Silver Award”
$259.00inc (+P&H)
** Sales limited to Australian purchases only at this time **
Release info below….
Chardonnay / Tokay Cask
SILVER AWARD: 2024 IWSC – 94pts
Bottling Strength: 59.7% ABV
Age: 5 years
Type: 100L Geoff Hardy Chardonnay Cask (French Oak) for 2 years and 3 months, then re-casked into a 100L Wayne Dutschke Tokay Cask (French Oak) for a further 2 years and 9 months
Cask No: W1.1
Cask Origin: McLaren Vale & Barossa Valley, SA
Mash Bill: Pilsner
Distilling Premise: MVD
On a personal note, this release holds a particularly special place in my heart. It marks a significant milestone in the Woodwater portfolio—crafted from the very first barrel I ever laid down: a fresh Geoff Hardy Chardonnay cask.
From the outset, the cask worked intensely with the spirit, developing a pronounced oak influence even at just two years of age. At 2.25 years, it became clear that the whisky needed to be removed to avoid overwhelming the spirit with oak. However, it wasn’t quite ready yet, it needed more time to evolve.
Inspired by the buttery characteristics of the Chardonnay, I sought to complement them with a more fruit-forward profile. The whisky was then transferred into a rich Tokay cask from the Barossa Valley for a second maturation, which brought depth and complexity.
The result is a rich, robust “journey” whisky, layered with dark fruit, earth, leather, and wood, balanced by a rounded mouthfeel and a hint of dark chocolate.
A perfect dram for the cigar lounge, and a whisky I’m truly proud to share.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Deep baked red fruits, cranberry-choc coconut slice, muesli, coffee bean and worn boot strap.
Palate: Richly fruit-driven to start. Leather bound books and rich mahogany jump on the palate.
Finish: Burnt raisins, Chinese maltose syrup, a touch of strawberry custard and old wood.
IWSC Tasting Notes:
“Rich sherry like character with leather, tobacco, and dry leaves. Dark Chocolate, baking spice, prunes and raisins flourish on the enduring palate that has incredible depth and alcohol integration”.
It has been our experience that they showcase their profiles, aromas and drink best around and above room temperature (between 18-23°C).
These whiskies deserve TIME, PATIENCE, and WARMTH in your glass.