Penderyn Madeira whisky review

let’s begin

Penderyn Distillery is the only distillery in Wales, and they certainly do their country proud...

…particularly with the single malt expression Penderyn Madeira; one of the distillery’s best.

Penderyn distillery is based in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons and a visit lets you soak up the wonderful Welsh surroundings as well as sampling some impressive Welsh drams.

They are still quite a young distillery, especially when compared to places in Scotland and Ireland, but with what they have been producing so far, they have adapted very well.

Penderyn first opened in 2004 and have been thriving ever since. Not only does the distillery create a number of award-winning Whiskies but they also distil Gin, Vodka and Welsh Cream Liqueur.

Penderyn Madeira Whisky Tasting Notes

One of their best Whiskies is Penderyn Madeira Single Malt. This expression has been matured in ex-Bourbon barrels and finished in Madeira casks. It is full of character and is a well-rounded malt.

The nose opens with delectably sweet offerings of rich, creamy toffee and raisins.

The sweetness of the toffee is complemented by the slight tang of the raisins and more fruits soon begin to show themselves.

Apples and bananas are key to the nose, where they give great depth and richness. Penderyn Madeira is brimming with orchard flavours and the apples especially give it a fantastically sweet bite.

There is also a grassy herbal note that rounds off the nose well.

The palate adds to these flavours with refinement and sweet sophistication.

A biscuity base starts to show itself, giving a wonderful dullness against the tang of the green fruits and grass.

The rich toffees melt in the mouth and become a vanilla and cinnamon caramel that is creamy and smooth, lending itself to a delicate mouth feel.

The fruits also give a crisp dryness that mixes well with the earthy tones of dew-covered grass.

On the finish there is a subtle spice that warms as it lingers.

Tags: Breacon BeaconsDrinkWireMadeira Single MaltPenderyn DistilleryPenderyn MadeiraWales

Greg

My name is Greg, and I’m a brand strategy consultant, writer, speaker, host and judge specialising in premium spirits. My mission is to experience, share and inspire with everything great about whisky, whiskey, gin, beer and fine dining through my writing, my brand building and my whisky tastings.