Cotswolds Distillery Single Malt Whisky 20cl: A Taste of the English Countryside

The Cotswolds Distillery Single Malt Whisky is a pioneering spirit, proudly claiming the title of the first whisky ever distilled in the idyllic Cotswolds region of England. This 20cl bottle offers a delightful introduction to a whisky crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using locally sourced ingredients and traditional methods.

Grain to Glass: The Cotswolds Distilling Process

The Cotswolds Single Malt begins its journey with 100% floor-malted barley grown in the rich Cotswold soil. Floor malting, a time-honoured technique, allows the barley to germinate naturally, unlocking its natural sugars that will later be converted into alcohol during fermentation. After germination, the barley is carefully kiln-dried to arrest the process and preserve the delicate malty flavours.

The malted barley is then mashed, where hot water extracts the sugars, creating a sweet wort. This wort is then fermented using a specific yeast strain, which converts the sugars into alcohol. Following fermentation, the twice-distilled spirit matures in a combination of first-fill ex-bourbon barrels and reconditioned red wine casks. The ex-bourbon barrels impart notes of vanilla, caramel, and subtle hints of oak spice, while the red wine casks contribute a touch of red fruit character.

Tasting Notes: A Balanced English Delight

Nose: The Cotswolds Single Malt greets the nose with a welcoming aroma of fresh orchard fruits, such as pears and apples. Hints of citrus zest add a touch of vibrancy, alongside a subtle malty sweetness reminiscent of homemade biscuits. As the whisky opens up in the glass, deeper notes of honey and spice emerge, hinting at the influence of the red wine cask maturation.

Palate: The first sip delivers a smooth and rounded mouthfeel, with the initial sweetness balanced by a gentle oak tannin. The orchard fruit flavours from the nose translate beautifully onto the palate, joined by hints of honey and a whisper of red berry fruit. The influence of the ex-bourbon barrels becomes more apparent here, with a touch of vanilla and caramel adding depth and richness.

Finish: The finish is pleasantly long and lingering, with the oak spice gently building and the fruit flavours gradually fading. A touch of warming ginger adds a final touch of complexity.

Serving Suggestions

To fully appreciate the nuanced flavours of the Cotswolds Single Malt Whisky, we recommend enjoying it neat or on the rocks.

• Neat: Pour a measure of the Cotswolds Single Malt into a chilled tasting glass or tumbler. Allow the whisky to breathe for a few minutes to allow the aromas to develop fully. Swirl the whisky gently in the glass and take a sip, savouring the smooth texture and complex flavours.
• On the Rocks: If you prefer a slightly cooler dram, add a large ice cube to your glass. The ice will slowly melt, releasing a touch of dilution that can open up the flavours further.
• Cotswolds Cocktail: For a refreshing twist, try the Cotswolds Spritz. Combine 50ml of Cotswolds Single Malt Whisky with 25ml of fresh lemon juice, 15ml of sugar syrup, and top with soda water. Garnish with a sprig of mint for a touch of summery flair.

Food Pairing

The Cotswolds Single Malt Whisky’s versatility makes it a great companion to a variety of foods. Here are some suggested pairings:

• Cheese: Creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert complement the whisky’s sweetness and richness.
• Fruit: A plate of fresh berries or a slice of apple pie enhances the whisky’s fruit notes.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate, particularly with a high cocoa content, pairs well with the whisky’s oaky spice.
• Smoked Meats: Smoked salmon or duck pair beautifully with the whisky’s subtle smokiness.

In Conclusion: A Pioneering Spirit Worth Exploring

The Cotswolds Distillery Single Malt Whisky 20cl is a testament to the burgeoning English whisky scene. This single malt offers a delightful drinking experience, showcasing a balanced and flavourful spirit crafted with passion and meticulous attention to detail. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky enthusiast or just beginning your exploration, the Cotswolds Single Malt is a rewarding dram that captures the essence of the English countryside in every sip.