Let’s enter the den of iniquity, shall we?
Based in Adelaide in the South of Australia, Iniquity is not merely one of the many distilleries that have recently mushroomed across terra australis – they started operations over a decade ago under a different guise and have consistently honed their craft before they re-emerged as part of Tin Shed Distillery and have ever since graced the whiskey scenery with their delicious high quality emissions that keep raising the bar.
Iniquity has become known for some excellent small batches that prove to be very hard to get a hold of as aficionados usually snap them up within hours of them being offered.
It took me a while to get a hold of Iniquity’s expressions, but it was well worth waiting despite expectations having risen along the way.
My first exposure was their most recent batch, i.e. Iniquity Batch 14 Single Malt Whisky.
Bottled at 46% ABV with no age statement and aged in American Oak, lots of wood hit the nostrils, embedded in a melange of toffee and sweet honey. The latter transitions onto the palate as the fruity nuances become more pronounced and culminate in a finish that is reminiscent of a rich dessert.
An interesting expression that builds up its complexity, which keeps things interesting – every time you think you got it, it takes a slight delicious left turn.
Next up was the Iniquity Single Malt Whisky Gold Batch No. 004.
Now, this babyh is award decorated and I quickly learned the reasons for it: Aged in American oak single port casks, this cask strength won me over with the overarching port and sherry flavours that are accentuated by honey, peanuts and sour notes.
Sounds intriguing? Well, it is.
There are nuts and wood flavours that tickle the palate and the finish is nothing but an elegant exercise in fruits and nuts.
Good ole Jim Murray was not too far off when he described the experience of Batch 04 as simply gorgeous.
A dangerously more-ish drop that made me an instant believer in Iniquity.
Next up was #12: Iniquity’s Batch # 12 was released in 2018, aged in port and sherry casks and is – compared to the aforementioned - less woody in character.
There are notes of burnt jam, and in many aspects, I find it reminiscent of Limeburners’ Port Cask expression yet with a bit more zest as the sweeter parts are more dominant without being overpowering.
A well-calibrated dram with loads of natural sweetness up front, without ever entering saccharine sweetness territory. The mouthfeel is quite grippy with its texture, which makes for a borderline tactile experience.
With its elongated, powerful finish and stewed fruit nuances, it leaves one lusting for more.
Needless to say, I cannot wait to explore Iniquity’s other and upcoming batches - a journey in spirit indeed.
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