Hellyers Road 17 Year Original American Oak Single Cask Whisky ABV 60.70% 700ml

Hellyers Road Distillery is located in Burnie, in the North of Tasmania. It was founded in the late 1990s with the passion for whisky shared by the owner of a milk cooperative (Betta Milk), a group of dairy farmers and a professional distiller. These dairy farmers knew their environment was perfect for sourcing ingredients of purity and quality. Hellyers Road Distillery Single Malt whiskies are available in over 20 countries throughout Europe.

This 17-years-old was bottled exclusively for the French market as part of La Maison du Whisky Conquête range. The whisky was aged in American Oak and 130 bottles have been produced.

Unpeated

Colour:

Deep copper.

Nose:

Neat: A beautiful medley of tropical and citrus fruits – passion fruit, pineapple, lemon, grapefruit, and oranges – complemented by a gentle maltiness (grist). Despite the high ABV, the alcohol is seamlessly integrated, with no burn at all. Fudge, vanilla, and brown sugar add sweetness, alongside a subtle hint of fennel.

With water: Custard and a touch of tartness emerge, along with fresh croissant notes, but the vibrant fruitiness fades significantly.

Palate:

Neat: A stark contrast to the nose, with a bold, heated arrival and unexpected woodiness. Toasted oak, vanilla, and intense caramel lead the way. On a second sip, the heat mellows slightly, revealing lemon juice, a generous pinch of pepper, and wood-matured coffee beans. Pomelo with a sprinkle of chili pepper adds a zesty kick.

With water: Unlike the reduced nose, the palate gains citrusy brightness, with lime, blood oranges, and pomelo making an appearance. The heat is noticeably tamed.

Finish:

Medium in length, with lingering wood notes and a touch of grapefruit juice.