Pōkeno – Exploration Series 'Totara Cask' Finish New Zealand Single Malt Whisky (70cl, 46%)

This is a New Zealand single malt from Pōkeno Distillery, part of its Exploration Series, bottled at 46% ABV in a 70cl bottle. It was fully matured in first-fill bourbon casks, then moved to Totara barrels for a second period of maturation. Totara is a native New Zealand tree whose timber is known for its hard, straight grain and for giving sweet, creamy notes when toasted. The 200-litre barrels were made at Pōkeno's own cooperage, with a light toast and light char. The nose is creamy coconut, sweet sap, ripe white peach and freshly cut wood. The palate has bitter lemon, stone fruit and hints of dark chocolate, and the finish is long and sweet.