It's here, the very first extension to the Reference Series, allowing direct comparison back to one of three 'control' whiskies. Yes, this is I.1, comprising of the same whiskies in the same proportions as Reference Series I, except that now approximately 1/3 of it has spent an additional finishing period of a month in fresh 50 litre ex-Pedro Ximénez casks.
No other variables have been changed, which is what the Reference Series is all about. As far as we know this is the first time it's been possible for consumers to compare the exact same whisky with, and without, a specific cask finish influence, thus allowing them to experience the effects of this process. You can smell and taste the difference in your glass, knowing where the changes have come from, just as you can for II and III with their counterparts II.1 and III.1.
Straight into fruity teacake on a richer nose than the Reference Series I, lemon curd, sultanas, dried apricot, a bundle of oats and a touch of menthol.
Retaining that slightly effervescent mouthfeel, but not so much of the bready Champagne notes from I, it's a subtle palate with hints of white raisins, cedar, Pinot Grigio and just a hint of nuttiness.
Dry with hazelnut notes coming into their own before leaving you with more notes from the palate.
Finishing approximately 1/3 of this whisky in fresh PX casks has introduced new notes and richness with light dried fruit and nutty notes adding to an already delicious blended malt.
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I like this less than the Straight reference series - the Sherry brings out some of the more 'tequila-y' notes, but hey - that's the whole point of this, right?
