Pōkeno – Exploration Series Triple Distilled New Zealand Single Malt Whisky (70cl, 49%)

This is a triple distilled New Zealand single malt from Pōkeno, part of its Exploration Series, bottled at 49% in a 70cl bottle. It was matured in first fill bourbon barrels. The distillery has only two stills, so the final two distillations took place in its 3600 litre spirit still, with the hearts separated from the heads and tails each time. Triple distillation concentrates the alcohol and brings lighter, fruitier flavours. The nose is rich honey and vanilla with hints of citrus and toffee. The palate offers vanilla bean, butterscotch, sweet citrus and a touch of pepper and clove, followed by a long, rich finish.