New Holland Artisan Spirits Zeppelin Blend Straight Malt Whiskey 750ml Bottle

One of my two favorite beers in the universe is made by New Holland in Michigan – Dragon’s Milk – a deep, dark, malty stout. I just discovered they are a brewstillery, not just a brewery – i.e. they distill spirits as well – specifically, a single malted barley. Their signature single malt opens with sweet vanilla, sweet maltiness, and a little tangy green apple-peels, which are joined by cocoa powder, toasted caramel, and charred oak – then the spices – more of a sharp ancho chili, than the typical black pepper – similar to a rye – quite spicy. It’s light on the mouthfeel – watery even, with some pretty watery legs as well; however, the spicy cocoa powder, burnt dark brown sugar (think Beinn Dubh The Black), maltiness, and charred oak carry through to a medium-length dry/dusty finish – more than is expected from the thinness of texture. The heavy influence of stout beer definitely comes through – like drinking a very heavy, spicy beer, but not having to pee. The overbearing sweetness on the first sip is much less pronounced with subsequent sips, and it becomes a much more balanced dram over time. Drink slow, drink long, drink a variety, drink often.

Light hot. Generally smooth. Not a terrible lingering flavor.