Happy New Year! The holiday season is over and after the big snowstorm with freezing temps we just got; we are officially back to the grind. This is my first 2018 blog post and to start the year out, Westland Sherry Wood.

Westland is an American Whiskey from Seattle, Washington established in 2010. The Sherry Wood is matured in Pedro Ximénez, Oloroso Sherry, new American oak and ex-bourbon casks.

Tasting Notes

Nose: oak, fruit and honey

Palate: sherry, spices, fruit and hints of sweetness

Finish: smooth with ending notes of fruit and spices

For a young whiskey, this Sherry Wood is good. You can tell the distillery worked hard on the quality that went into this bottle. It’s a very solid dram and I think many will enjoy it. Personally, I enjoyed it! For an American whiskey, I didn’t find it to be harsh and it’s very drinkable. It is also not overly sweet. The spice notes helped counter balance the sweetness.

Now, my introduction to this brand was with Westland’s Peated whiskey. In my initial review of this whiskey I wrote that it was good, but it didn’t blow me away. I also stated that I would never buy a bottle. That review was posted nearly two years ago, since then, well… my thoughts have changed.

For Christmas, my boyfriend bought me a bottle of Westland’s peated whiskey and when I tried it again, it was like discovering it for the first time. If you aren’t a peat whisky fan, this is a whiskey you might enjoy as the peat is subtle and not too overwhelming. The peat notes are light and not so in your face as most peated whiskies are. Honestly, I love in your face peated whiskies, but not all the time. This is a good alternative for days I am looking for something milder.

If I had to choose one over the other, I’d choose Westland’s Peated Single Malt Whiskey although, these two ranges by Westland are different in their own way. I see huge promise in this distillery. The products they are putting out there are quality products that I think will only improve as time goes by.

Cheers!

PS: I first tasted these two whiskies at the recommendation of Frank Weber at Boston’s Omni Parker House. His whiskey knowledge is exceptional! If you are seeking more knowledge you can check out his blog and whiskey services at: http://frajilspirits.com

Note: The contents on my blog are solely my opinion. To me every palate is different! Although I may or may not like a product, I always recommend for people to try it and make up their own minds.