At five years of maturation, whisky starts to reap the benefits of its cask environment significantly. The gradual and consistent interaction of the spirit with the wood’s pores works to soften the sharpness of the alcohol, introducing a complexity of flavours and a richness that was absent in its younger years.
Finnish whisky tells a captivating and evolving story. Although Finland has a rich history in spirit production, especially renowned for its vodka and liqueurs, whisky is a more recent addition to its repertoire. Nevertheless, it quickly made its mark. Starting in earnest in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Finnish whisky sector, despite its youth, demonstrated a level of maturity and sophistication unexpected for its age. At the core of Finnish whisky’s distinctive character is its approach to production. While it holds true to time-honoured whisky-making traditions, it also incorporates unique local characteristics.
Finland’s subarctic climate plays a significant role, both challenging and benefiting the maturation process of the five-year-old whisky. The colder temperatures result in a slower interaction between the spirit and the cask, often necessitating longer maturation times and leading to a more sophisticated development of flavours. Another defining feature of Finnish whisky is the choice of grain. Barley and malt are commonly used, but rye, a staple in Finnish cooking, frequently steals the spotlight. When used in whisky, rye lends a distinctive spiciness and robust character to the spirit.
Finnish distilleries, with access to plentiful fresh and pristine water sources, use this to ensure that every drop of their whisky maintains a high level of purity and clarity. Tasting a five-year-old Finnish whisky is like embarking on a sensory exploration of the country’s varied landscapes. Rye whiskies tend to offer bold, spicy notes mixed with a touch of earthiness, while barley-based whiskies might provide a softer, fruity, and subtly floral experience. The unique geography and climate of Finland also contribute an inherent freshness to many of its whiskies, capturing the essence of its sprawling forests, lakes, and crisp air. With nuances ranging from subtle berry hints to gentle whispers of smoky pine, Finnish whiskies distil the spirit of the nation into every sip.