By the time a whisky reaches six years of maturation, its interaction with the cask has deepened significantly. The spirit draws a variety of compounds from the wood, acquiring a spectrum of flavours ranging from the sweet caramel of American oak to the rich fruitiness associated with sherry casks. The distillery’s location continues to play a crucial role in the six-year-old whisky's maturation, with local temperature and humidity levels influencing both the ageing process and the final flavour profile of the spirit.
Finnish whisky, although a newer player on the global stage, tells a compelling story of ambition, innovation, and unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. Traditionally, countries like Scotland and Ireland have dominated the whisky narrative, but Finland’s venture into whisky production in recent decades has proven noteworthy. Historically, Finland has been more known for its production of vodka and other clear spirits. However, the 1990s marked a significant turning point with the birth of the Finnish whisky industry. The country’s pioneering distilleries ventured into unexplored territories, aiming to create a spirit that was not just competitive on a global scale but also intrinsically Finnish.
The process of making Finnish whisky, while bearing similarities to traditional methods, is uniquely tailored to the country’s conditions. The barley, commonly used as a base grain, is cultivated under the Finnish summer’s midnight sun, giving it a unique quality. Additionally, the pristine Finnish water, sourced from untouched lakes and underground springs, contributes a level of purity unmatched in other regions. When one tastes a six-year-old Finnish whisky, they are greeted with an exquisite blend of flavours, from fresh fruit and subtle spiciness from the rye to occasional hints of peat. However, it’s the use of Finnish wood in the maturation process that truly distinguishes this whisky. Finnish oak barrels give the six-year-old whisky unique notes of tar, smoke, and a hint of vanilla. The cold Finnish winters extend the maturation process, resulting in a smooth and harmonious finish.
Finnish whisky stands as a celebration of the nation’s untouched nature, rich traditions, and forward-thinking spirit. It represents how a newcomer to the whisky scene can produce a beverage that not only resonates globally but also retains a distinctly Finnish character.