At 7 years old, whisky finds itself in a stage of transition, displaying a lively character yet starting to show signs of maturity. The influence of the oak is unmistakable, imparting a range of flavours from sweet toffee to the richness of dried fruits. This age signifies a pivotal moment where the vivacity of its youth starts to blend with the depth that time brings.
In Belgium, a country with a vast heritage in brewing, whisky production is a relatively recent venture. The Belgian climate, particularly in areas such as the Ardennes, is favourable for maturing whisky, allowing the flavours to develop and mature over the years. Drawing from their extensive brewing knowledge, Belgian whisky producers utilise malts and yeasts typically used in beer making, resulting in a product with unique and distinctive flavours. This 7-year-old whisky is a representation of Belgium's rich brewing past, manifesting itself in the spirit’s diverse flavour profile.
Belgian whisky offers a wide spectrum of tastes, ranging from gentle, floral notes to more complex and robust profiles. The use of various cask types, including those that have previously held sherry, wine, or traditional Belgian beers, adds to this diversity. Innovation is a key characteristic of Belgian distilleries, as they experiment with unconventional grains and casks. The integration of rye, spelt, and local oak varieties introduces a range of unique flavours and tannins, contributing to the distinctive nature of Belgian whisky.
Even though the Belgian whisky industry is relatively young, it has already garnered international attention, with increasing exports and numerous awards. This reflects the commitment to quality and the innovative spirit that underpin whisky production in Belgium, blending time-honoured brewing techniques with modern practices.
Every bottle of this 7-year-old Belgian whisky invites drinkers to explore its rich array of flavours and the innovative approaches that define this captivating category of spirit.