A couple of weekends ago, my husband and I headed to a local tapas spot (Taberna de Haro) for cocktails, and to my surprise, I learned that Spain makes whisky. Sangria might have some competition now. Ibar Basque Mountain Whisky 8 Year comes from Destilería Acha, a distillery established in 1831 in the Basque Country.

The whisky blends 75% unmalted barley with 25% malted barley, is distilled in copper pot stills, and aged in re-charred Iberian oak casks that once held wine. The smoke comes from local Basque heather roots, giving it a unique smoky profile without the peat. Now, let’s get into the whisky.

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Nose: light smoke, oak and spices

Palate: subtle smoke notes, baking spices, fruit and nuttiness

Finish: lightly sweet and warming

ABV: 40% | Cost: $40

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This was far better than anticipated and notably approachable. I sampled it neat and found the smoke to be light and refined, without the heaviness of peat. Subtle baking spices are complemented by a touch of fruit, likely from the wine cask maturation. I’m not sure if it’s available locally, but I’m very glad I had the opportunity to try it and would happily explore more from this brand.

Cheers!

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 people to try it and make up their own minds.