Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1050740
november 2018 / the tasting panel / 91 e Meaning of a Name: Wemyss Malts Certain spirit categories can prove challenging when it comes to discerning nuances in flavor profiles and variances in style. Regarding Scotch malt whiskies, age statements and barrel types—not to mention complicated terminology—can offer little information to consumers on whether they'll actually enjoy a spirit in question. To assist consumers in making a selection that suits their specific tastes, Wemyss Malts (pro- nounced "Weems") names its lineup of single and blended malt Scotch after the various tastes and aromas of the whiskies. These monikers, among them Peat Chimney, Spice King, and Italian Bakery Delight, help reveal what customers will encounter upon their first sip; its expression called The Hive, for example, is a blend of ten single malts dominated by sweet, honeyed notes typical of the Speyside region. The Wemyss family's ties to the whisky industry date back to the 19th century, when Haig's founder John Haig built his first distillery on their land. The family still provides barley to Scottish distillers and, in an effort to continue building upon these relationships, they sought out the best representations of Scotch malt whiskies from various regions while enabling the consumer to better understand the style they're purchasing. For Wemyss Malts' three main expressions— Spice King ($55), Peat Chimney ($55), and The Hive ($55)—up to 16 single malts are blended before the addition of signature malts, giving each of the expressions a spicy, peaty, or honeyed flavor profile, respectively. The portfolio also includes a number of limited-release single cask/single malt expressions. Whisky consultant and author Charlie MacLean, elected as a Master of the Quaich (the high- est honor in the Scotch industry), leads the nosing panel that chooses these exceptional casks, all of which are a minimum of 19 years old. These expressions also feature names that offer the drinker an idea of what to expect: Coastal Orchard ($150) shows layers of crushed apples and salted-caramel toffee; Italian Bakery Delight ($150) offers notes of vanilla custard and brioche; and Hike to Heaven ($205) features a briny backdrop with hints of greenery. No longer will guests be forced to randomly order a Scotch from the menu, as Wemyss takes the guesswork out of the selection process. PALM BAY INTERNATIONAL