90 Colkegan Cask Strength Single Malt: Mesquite-smoked New Mexico single malt. Rich and beefy on the nose: charred brisket, slated meat, tangerines, dark wood, brine, and white smoke. The palate is powerful, oak-forward without being astringent, and very spicy. Walnut, cayenne pepper, and grilled citrus balance out the meaty, oaky flavors. Saddle leather, cherries, and even more smoke on the finish. Tangy, salty, spicy, and malty. A truly compelling American single malt with great structure.
89 Colkegan Apple Brandy Cask Finished Single Malt: Soft and juicy aromas of ginger juice, apple tart, strawberry shortcake, and lights, sweet smoke. Very aromatic, with lots of citrus, clove, and cinnamon. Orange creamsicle on the palate, with a good deal of apple, poached pear, marmalade, and light smoke. Salted butter, gentle oak, and wispy smoke keep this in balance. A good harmony of flavors.
87 Colkegan Single Malt: A dry smoke, led by brisket, dry oak, and cherries. Sweetly smoky in the mouth, with black pepper, cayenne, and barbecue flavors, as well as grilled fruits, nectarines, and charred plums. A good balance of sweet and spicy, with a backbone of minerality. The mesquite flavor amps up in the long and spicy finish.
all reviews by Adam Polonski