American

Courage & Conviction Sherry Cask American Single Malt Whisky Review

Can a sherry-cask whisky stay true to its house style? This Virginia Distillery Co bottle says yes—with rich raisin, chocolate, and spice.

OVERALL RATING

8
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Tasting Notes

About:

A sherried alternative from the folks at the Virginia Distillery Co. Matured for at least six years in first fill ex-sherry casks, this is a deeper, richer profile when compared to their signature release.
Appearance:
Gold
Nose:
Sweet raisins, dark chocolate, toasted nuts, maple syrup, honey and cinnamon. Freshly made bread and some little notes of black pepper.
Palate:
Mellow, sweet and leads with raisin syrup and sultana. Melted chocolate and coconut, cherries and some gentle habanero spice.
Finish:
Warmer and deeper, very reminiscent of things like Glenfarclas 15 and younger Macallan release from a few years back. Gentle heat that really helps carry across those richer, slightly savoury sherry flavours or saturated raisins and steamed Christmas pudding.
Comments:
This is a great sherry cask influence that still allows spirit to shine through. My biggest issue with a lot of sherry cask maturations is that it overides that house style, with a few small exceptions. I still get that fruity, slightly spicy spirit from the Virginia Distillery Co, but we’re also tasting some very potent sherry influences. Great balance.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Phil Dwyer

Phil Dwyer is a freelance whisky writer and consultant. With a decade of experience in whisky retail and nearly as long running Whisky Wednesday on YouTube, Phil is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow whisky lovers. His goal is to make whisky accessible and enjoyable, dispelling the jargon and complexity that can sometimes surround the spirit. In addition to his online presence, Phil managed The Whisky Shop Manchester, where he curated an impressive selection of some of the finest drams available.

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