Been meaning to write about the (relatively) new Cutty Sark Storm for quite a while, but somehow never got to it. A few months ago I was lucky enough to receive a bottle of that lovely blend and I’ve been enjoying it quite a bit.The name ‘Storm’ can be a bit misleading as one might think it’s really a stormy kind of dram with lots of peat smoke etc (maybe more like the Talisker Storm, and Dark Storm which was just released). In two words: It Isn’t. At any rate, this expression is said to feature a higher proportion of older single malts than the regular NAS expression. So how was I reminded to publish tasting notes you ask? Easy: last week I can home to find a package from the whisky fairy containing a wee sample of Storm, a Cutty Sark glass, and Appletiser (fizzy apple juice), with an accompanying letter from the Cutty Sark brand ambassador, suggestion I try a nice and refreshing cocktail by mixing those ingredients in that glass (adding a dash of lemon). Normally I am pretty old fashioned when it comes to whisky and mixing it with apple juice or the like, but a twitter conversation with Joel from CaskStrength.net urged me try and experiment, and so I did. First thing first, let’s taste this one like Cutty intended: straight.
Cutty Sark, ‘Storm’ , NAS, ~£20
Nose: A bit of sherry influence, with hints of sultanas, prunes, and a bit of exotics: pineapple and whiff of coconut oil.
Palate:Lovely creamy sort of a palate , with some vanilla, fudge and creamy malt goodness on top of pear compote. Not exceptionally complex, but classic, getting more woody and dry towards the end.
Finish: A bit spicy with some peach, sugar and oak.
Score: 82/100
A nice, richer version of Cutty Sark, that would go nicely on the rocks (it’s summer , remember?) and straight.
Mixing it all up with some Appletiser resulted in a lovely little thirst quencher, which can cool you down, and make you happier, exactly what we need in the Hot (and long) summer. I think i shall endeavour and make a few more such drinks in the coming months, so thanks for the lovely idea Mr Jason Craig! The actual recipe is fairly simple:
50ml Cutty Sark Storm
330ml (12 ounces) of Appletiser or other sparkling apple juice.
Combine in a serving glass with a twist of lemon over ice.
Bingo!
Cutty Sark Storm Available for £20.71 from Master of Malt
Official sample provided by Cutty Sark.