Hye-Land

Quite enjoyable although it has some flaws. There's a lot of alcohol in the smell, along with some fairly bland grain and honey. It's not inviting but not repellent either. The flavor is surprisingly much nicer. Loads of honey and buttered bread, reminiscent of Irish whiskey. It's remarkably sweet in a pleasant, clean way. There's some alcohol here too but it's not offputting. The finish is more of the same toast with honey, and lasts for a while, with a faint bitterness. This is labeled as a "single malt", but according to information from the seller, it's made with 100% malted wheat, which is an unusual mash bill. The taste has some similarity to a wheated bourbon, so I suppose that makes sense. The packaging itself doesn't mention the 100% wheat, saying only that the grains are grown in the "Caucus" mountains (presumably a typo for "Caucasus"). Also, from what I found the name "Hye-land" is pun on "Hye" which is the Armenian word for "Armenian". I picked this up because I have enjoyed Armenian brandies and thought it would be interesting to try. It is not great and the nose in particular is underwhelming but I find myself surprised by how often finishing one glass makes me feel like having another. At $30 a bottle it's perhaps a bit more expensive than it ought to be, but not outrageously so.

Hye-Land 43% abv. 12 year old Armenian Whisky Aged in Armenian Oak and finished in brandy barrels. "Small batch single malt". Distilled and bottled in Armenia. Aroma: fruity and sweet Taste: fruity, brandy like, sweet, very minor oak in aftertaste, sweet finish, no off aromas or flavors, just doesn't taste much like whisky. Very smooth, easy sipper on the rocks. Definitely will revisit one day. Cost: gift Grade: B-

A pleasant herbal spice on the nose and palate like you would find in a rye. Sweet, vanilla undertones

Nose: Apricot, ginger, rubber Palate: Sweet. Vanilla, pear, green grapes, cinnamon