Mackmyra Vintersol

Mackmyra has come a long way since 1999 when it was founded as the only whisky distillery in Sweden. Since then it has earned a reputation as a top quality single malt producer in spite of its untraditional Scandinavian location. Alongside various special releases, the First Edition was launched in 2008 with Brukswhisky following in 2010. Two styles of whisky are produced by Mackmyra, a "peaty" malt created using bog moss and juniper wood as well as a fruitier, unpeated style.

In 2012 a second site was opened at Gavle, a gravity-run facility that stands at 37 metres high! Between the two sites Mackmyra Svensk Whisky have a capacity to rival many a Scottish distillery with the difference being that almost all of Mackmyra's output is going into single malts!

They create their malt whisky using selected Swedish ingredients and with no additives whatsoever. Much of the whisky has been stored in 100-litre casks, which produces an exciting, powerful ageing process. These casks are all stored in the Bodas mine, 50 metres down inside the primary rock.

Vintersol translates to 'Winter Sun', and was created in collaboration with the Port wine producer Quinta Do Vallado. The idea is to combine the sun-soaked grapes with the rather wintery Swedish single malt. So, they finished Vintersol in casks which previously held Port from Quinta Do Vallado, adding a rich and fruity dimension to the otherwise creamy whisky. An appropriate dram for sun or snow, sommar or vinter.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Oaky vanilla, with liquorice, grape skins, pear tart and vanilla custard, gingerbread and lots of dried fruit, with a subtle note of pine.

Palate: Gently spiced, with peppery oak and warmer root ginger spice, with custard creams, fruitcake, tinned pear and subtle sherry influence.

Finish: Toasted hot cross buns, with spicy oak and orchard fruit on the finish.