Tasting notes·Hercynian Distilling Co. / Hammerschmiede
Elsburn The Journey (2020)
With the Elsburn The Journey 2020, the Hammerschmiede distillery in Germany has launched an interesting and unique bottling on the market. This single malt has no age statement and is bottled with an alcohol content of 43% vol. But how does this whisky perform in terms of flavour, aroma and drinking pleasure?
The panel
Mean 72.0 · spread 0
Value for money 3/5
- Distillery
- Hercynian Distilling Co. / Hammerschmiede
- Type
- Single Malt
- Country
- Germany
- Strength
- 43% ABV
- Character
- delicate
Tasting
Nose
From the very first nosing, it is noticeable that Elsburn The Journey 2020 has unusual flavours. The fragrance brings with it a gentle caramel note that arouses curiosity, accompanied by a slightly musty base that mixes with traces of sulphur and walnut. Added to this is the warm scent of boiled chestnuts, which gives the whisky an autumnal, nutty depth.
Palate
On the palate, Elsburn unfolds with a soft, marzipan-like sweetness reminiscent of roasted almonds. A light fruitiness and the warm flavour of forest honey provide a harmonious sweetness, which is quickly replaced by a pinch of sultanas and a subtle roasted aroma. A surprising note is the slightly oily mouthfeel, which gives the whisky more body and at the same time makes it appear rounder.
Finish
In the finish, Elsburn The Journey 2020 shows a stronger side: black pepper and a hint of burnt wood bring the experience to a spicy and somewhat rustic end. However, the finish is rather short and tingling - a quick finish that does not leave a long aftertaste, but rounds off the spicy experience nicely.
Verdicts
Marcel
Elsburn The Journey 2020 is a charming German single malt that offers plenty of enjoyment with its nutty sweetness and spicy edges. The youthful, slightly raw notes aren’t entirely polished yet, but that very quality gives it a distinct character that piques curiosity — ideal for anyone looking for an unconventional tasting experience.
Sascha
The Elsburn The Journey 2020 reveals an intriguing combination of aromas with a solid structure, yet it suffers from a somewhat underdeveloped finish and a short aftertaste. Despite the pleasant balance between sweetness and spice, the whisky still lacks the depth and complexity to fully satisfy seasoned connoisseurs.
What it is worth
No auction record for this distillery, so we cannot tell you what this bottle is worth. We would rather say that than guess.