William Grant & Sons, the independent family owned spirits company, is thrilled to announce the launch of Grant’s Ale Cask Finish Blended Whisky, the only blended Scotch whisky available in the US finished for up to four months in barrels that have previously held ale.
Created by the Grant’s blending team, led by renowned Master Blender, Brian Kinsman, together with a small Scottish brewing company, the ale casks give the whisky a distinctively creamy, malty and honeyed taste. The inspiration behind the blend derived from Kinsman’s observation that whisky lovers enjoyed pairing a pint alongside their Scotch whisky. The team decided to marry the two flavors in a blend and brokered a partnership with a local brewing company to develop the first ever ale cask finish whisky.
Grant’s Master Blender Brian Kinsman commented, “I thoroughly enjoy working with different finishes on our blended whiskies – it’s a fascinating process to monitor the evolution as the casks work their magic on the liquid. We have the end result in mind as we craft all our whiskies, but there is something special about adding the final touch with an interesting finish. The resulting flavor of the whisky is so reminiscent of the liquid previously held in the cask, it takes the drinker’s palate on a really remarkable journey.”
Rob Allanson, Grant’s Global Brand Ambassador said, “The Grant’s Ale Cask truly demonstrates our innovation pedigree and blending skills that have been handed down through generations of Master Blenders. No other blended Scotch available on the market has been finished in ale casks, and we’re proud to be known as the makers of such a unique, award-winning whisky.”
Grant’s Ale Cask Finish won a silver medal at the recent Global Scotch Whisky Masters 2015. It will be available in select local markets in a 750ml bottle with an ABV of 40%. Recommended MSRP is $19.99.
Tasting notes for Grant’s Ale Cask Finish:
Nose: Clean and fresh, with creamy maltiness. Subtle elderflower and heather.
Palate: Maple syrup, red apples and honey. Hints of oak in the background.
Finish: Long, fresh with bags of fruit notes and hints of citrus.
Tasting Video: https://www.grantswhisky.com/en-gb/our-blends/grants-ale-cask-finish/
