Schlitzer Single Malt Klassisch

Nose

When we hold the glass under our nose, the Schlitzer presents itself with – well, let's call it a "restrained presence". Fresh oak barrels are definitely there. You can literally smell how the bourbon casks have done their job. The problem is that they may have had a little too little time to do so. The vanilla notes are there, quite vanilla-like in fact, almost as if someone had forgotten that subtlety is a virtue. A slight hint of light fruit. That sounds more romantic than it is. We're not talking about juicy peaches or exotic mangoes here, but rather the memory of fruit that was once nearby. A hint of malt joins in, and then comes the surprise: marzipan. Yes, marzipan. As if the whisky had spontaneously decided to remind us of Christmas. However, it's the marzipan from the discount store, not the handmade kind from the pastry chef.

Palate

Apple! Fruity apple! Finally, something's happening! The Slitter delivers its strongest argument here: a clear, fruity apple note that is actually refreshing. Not complex, not multi-layered, but at least present. It's the moment when you think, "Okay, maybe this will work after all." Then comes the slight dryness. Not unpleasant, but not particularly exciting either. It's as if the whisky has decided to remain subtle rather than embarrass itself. A hint of mini oak emerges... yes, mini oak. Not the powerful wood notes of a matured malt, but more like someone has placed an oak toothpick in the glass and waited a moment.

Finish

And here the inevitable happens: the finish is – well, how to put this diplomatically? – weak. Very weak. "Vodka" is written in our tasting notes, and unfortunately that's no exaggeration. The whisky disappears from the mouth faster than you can say "Sláinte".