Let it be known that Last Straw Distillery‘s Stout Whisky is not a stout cask finished whisky.
The recently released expression came be as the result of a collaboration with nearby Vaughn, Ontario Brewery, Lake Wilcox Brewing Co.
The uncarbonated “essence” of a Lake Wilcox Irish stout was used to create this double-distilled whisky that was aged in re-charred American oak that previously held red wine. Although still quite young (3 years old), it is the further aged and evolved liquid that was used for Last Straw’s ‘Stout Spirit’ release (which was released at a mere 4 months old).
Currently, the release is available by distillery only.
*SHELF APPEAL RATING (Note: does not count toward final score, out of 5):
APPEARANCE: A faint bit of hazy sediment is apparent. Amber lager in colour.
NOSE: Loads of powdery banana notes show up first, and then mingle with vanilla custard, toasted caramel and charred oak. Red licorice and dark plums round out the nose.
PALATE: The front palate is met with molasses, caramelized banana and the tannic essence of red wine. This is quickly followed up with charred oak, vanilla and coffee. Medium sweet.
FINISH: Medium. Maple syrup, red wine, char. A hint of red licorice and coffee round out the finish.
*SHELF APPEAL: A tall wine bottle has been unfortunately brandished with a rather uninteresting text-heavy paper label, resulting in a package that might get overlooked on shelves.
ABV: 45%
AGE: 3 years
CASK(S): Re-charred American oak which previously held red wine
PRICE: $75 CDN
ENJOY: Neat, with ice, or in a cocktail.
RATING:
Released late in the year during the December holidays of 2021, this whisky should positively raise some eyebrows (and some tastebuds) among enthusiasts.“
Conclusions
Released late in the year during the December holidays of 2021, this whisky should positively raise some eyebrows (and some tastebuds) among enthusiasts.
The $75 price tag might seem a little high at first given its age. However, considering the delicious end result and the dual processes (brewing and distilling) that were used to bring this into fruition between the two companies (Lake Wilcox, Last Straw), you’ll soon find out that it punches well above its weight belt, and is certainly worth the spend.
This is a delightfully rich, yet balanced expression that has great depth and weight to it, and it certainly caught me by surprise. Despite a bit of unusual sediment that was found in its appearance, the superb nose, taste, and finish of whisky speaks for itself – and has so much to say for a three year old.
‘No glitz, no glamour, just good honest spirits’ is Last Straw’s credo. Yup, that makes perfect sense here.
This is an example of a young Canadian whisky (or even it’s ‘Stout Spirit’ predecessor for that matter) that drinks like something much older (see: Macaloney’s Caledonian).
This is also a clear example of when American whisky drinkers say “the best stuff tends to stay in Canada”.
Maybe not for long in this case…
…And For Those So Inclined: A Recommended Cigar Pairing
Pair the Last Straw Stout Whisky with the Flor de las Antillas Maduro Cigar by My Father.
The medium-to-full bodied cigar brings forth indulgent flavors of cocoa, spices, wood and dried fruit with a balanced intensity. This wonderfully compliments the rich and medium-sweetness of the Stout Whisky.
REVIEWED FEBRUARY 2022
See more Canadian Whisky reviews
– Kurt Bradley
Kurt Bradley is the founder of The Gentleman’s Flavor, to which he is also a contributing editor, host and curator.
Kurt is a certified Whisky Ambassador accredited by The Scotch Whisky Association and has achieved Level 2 Award in Wine & Spirits Education Trust with distinction.
He lives in Toronto, Ontario.
