Cask Notes: Issue 2
Welcome to the second issue of Cask Notes, I'm very glad you are here!
This issue features:
- How to read and understand a Scotch label
- Do I only drink Scotch?
- Tasting notes: Jack Daniel's Bonded Rye
There's no bad whisky,
only good whisky, and better whisky
~ Scottish Saying
Reading a Scotch Label
Understanding a Scotch whisky label is like reading a story. It shows where and how the whisky was made, how long it was aged, and what aromas and tastes you might find. Here's the cheat sheet:
The Brand Name
The brand name is usually the most prominent thing you notice on a Scotch whisky label. It's most often the name of the distillery, like Glenfiddich, Lagavulin, or Macallan. This tells you who made the whisky and gives you an idea of its style.
The Age Statement
When you see a number and wording like "Aged 12 Years" it means the youngest whisky in the bottle was aged in oak barrels for at least 12 years. Age statements show how long the whisky has matured, but older doesn't always mean better.
The Region
This tells you which region the distillery is in and where the whisky was made.
Single Malt or Blended?
If the label says Single Malt, the whisky was made at one distillery. If you see Blended on the label, the whisky is a mix of malt and grain whiskies from different distilleries. If the label says Single Grain, the whisky comes from one distillery and can be made with grains other than just barley.
ABV (Alcohol by Volume)
This percentage tells you how strong the whisky is. Most bottles are 40 to 43% ABV, but cask strength whiskies can be much stronger.
Cask Type
Labels might mention Bourbon Cask, Sherry Cask, or Port Finish. These describe the barrels used to age and finish the whisky. Sherry casks bring dried fruit and spice, while bourbon casks add vanilla and caramel.
Non-Chill Filtered and Natural Color
Some labels say non chill filtered, meaning the whisky keeps more of its natural flavors. Natural color means no caramel coloring was added.
Bottling Information
Some limited releases include bottle numbers, batch numbers, or the master blender's signature, making a bottle more collectible.
Tasting Notes and Awards
Some bottles list tasting notes like honey, heather, or smoke, or carry award stickers. These are subjective, but they can help you know what to expect.
Do I Only Drink Scotch?
Short answer? Absolutely not!
Yes, I'm passionate about Scotch whisky as it's the backbone of what I'm building. But my palate is way more adventurous than that. I'm a huge fan of bourbons, Irish and Japanese whiskies, and a hazy, hoppy glass of beer now and then.
Real whisky enthusiasm isn't about labeling any one category as better. It's about appreciating the craft, the story, and the flavor of whatever's in your glass. A well-made bourbon is just as worthy of respect as a well-made single malt. A blended Japanese whisky can teach you something beautiful about the blending craft and attention to detail.
Tasting Notes — Jack Daniel's Bonded Rye
100 proof, bottled-in-bond, ~7 years old, 70% rye / 18% corn / 12% malted barley
I love Rye whiskies, always have. Bulleit 95 Rye is a long-standing staple in my cupboard, and I have great things to say about this one too:
Nose: Cinnamon and clove, maple sugar, toasted grain, faint banana bread.
Palate: Black pepper and cinnamon spice, balanced by maple and brown sugar sweetness, with oak and a hint of mint/citrus underneath.
Finish: Medium-long — peppery spice fading into vanilla and toasted oak.
Overall: Classic Jack Daniel's character (banana, caramel) with real spine from the higher rye content and proof. Good neat, and sturdy enough for an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
Pro Tip: Don't hesitate to add a couple of drops of water to bring the flavors forward and lessen the alcohol prickle.
