The Whisky Trail, Danish Spelt Rye 2020
Tucked into the windswept landscapes of rural western Denmark, Thy distillery (pronounced 'Tu') grows its grains organically on the owners' own family farm. From field to barrel — including on-site malting — every step remains in their hands, and experimentation is in their DNA. This whisky is built around Danish rye at 60% — gentler than its American counterpart, with a warmth closer to freshly baked bread. Spring barley makes up 30%, contributing stone fruit, malt, and a lift of citrus, while the remaining 10% spelt brings a sweet, nutty quality that rounds out the rye's character beautifully.
Nose
Pink roses, grass, petrichor
Palate
Nectarine, apricot, licorice
Finish
Sweet spice
The nose instantly hits you with bright florality – pink roses, dried lavender, wet cold grass, and petrichor. Then it moves into some light spice and fruits like nectarines, apricots, and an almost medicinal manuka honey character. The rye in this whisky really shines on the palate, although the spice character is far from overwhelming and is more cooling than hot, allowing those lovely fruit characteristics to come through too. There is a slight dustiness (which I am not averse to) on the palate, as well as some surprising herbaceousness with a touch of licorice. The texture is beautifully balanced – not too thin, not too oily. The finish is medium, with sweeter spices rounding out the whisky beautifully.
Style
Details
The Whisky Trail, Danish Spelt Rye 2020
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