The Hearach Single Malt [Rel 1 HE 00003 23]
flavorcamp
September 18, 2024
3 min reading time
TL;DR: If you’re a fan of Highland Park, Talisker, or Bunnahabhain this is for you.
Hearach Single Malt (pronounced hare-OCK) offers a compelling glimpse into the distinctive character of the Isle of Harris. This whisky is a masterful blend of tradition and innovation, presenting a complex flavor profile that marries maritime influence with rich, peaty notes. Aged in a mix of American oak and sherry casks (including a small portion of Fino), Hearach Single Malt delivers layers of subtle smoke, brine, and a hint of fruitiness, making it an intriguing choice for those looking to explore the depth of island whiskies.
Review: Flavor Camp
Photo: Reece Sims
Flavor Camp Taste Profile
Overall Rating
Total Score: 39.0/50
Aroma: 7/9
Taste: 7/9
Finish: 4/5
Distinctiveness: 3.5/5
Overall Drinkability/Balance: 7/9
Value for Price: 5.5/8
Appearance: 5/5
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Pale Gold - The bottle is a distinctive, elegant design. The ridged pattern is reminiscent of rippling water or the Hebridean coastline.
- Aroma: Sweet, floral, smoky & salty! Floral notes (rose), grapefruit and red fruits jump out of the glass. Baked vanilla cheesecake and nuts are balanced by saline and a floral smoke.
- Taste & Mouthfeel: Soft floral smoke comes through on the palate - it's like a sweet cigar smoke versus a medicinal peat. This is followed by heather, vanilla, citrus, white pepper and baked yellow apples.
- Finish: Layers of smoke and sweetness linger on the finish.
- Distinctiveness: That floral smoke is distinctive to the islands. It's delicate but somehow also punchy.
- Overall Drinkability & Balance: This single malt shows restraint. Delicate but flavorsome, if you're looking to get into peated Scotch, this would make for an excellent introduction. If you're already a fan of peat, this also offers a unique tasting experience.
Product Details
- Distiller: Isle of Harris Distillery
- Type: Single Malt
- Age: No Age Statement
- Still Type: Copper Pot Stills
- Cask Type(s): (85%) Ex-Bourbon, (11%) (4%) Oloroso & Fino Butts
- Origin: Isle of Harris, Scotland (Highlands)
- Composition: 100% Malted Barley (Peated)
- ABV: 45%
- # of Distillations: 2
- Price: $149.99 CAD (2024)
Comments / Notes:
- Hearach Single Malt hails from the Isle of Harris in Scotland, an area known for its rugged landscapes and strong maritime influences. It’s produced by the same company as Isle of Harris Gin.
- Hearach Single Malt is crafted with a focus on traditional methods, including the use of local ingredients and unique distilling techniques, reflecting the rich heritage of the Isle of Harris.
- “Hearach” refers to someone from the Isle of Harris, reflecting the local identity and heritage tied to this single malt whisky.
- Crushable / Daily Drinker
- Cocktail Worthy
- Special Occasion Sipper Only
- Weird & Wonderful
- Skip It
Food Pairing Recommendations: Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies,
Cocktail Recommendations: Anything with Citrus, especially a riff on a Salty Dog. Also a Mamie Taylor.
