Waubs Harbour Waubs Original 43% 500ml

Distilled and matured just meters from the ocean and covered in salty air, Waubs Original was matured in ex-Bourbon wood then French oak Port casks. The nose is surprisingly dense and weighty with creamy vanilla and caramel complementing the richness of the malt; a touch of salted cracker biscuit and distant fruitiness takes this beyond your average first-fill Bourbon bouquet, following through in a medium bodied, rounded delivery; the chewy malt feels like it's well represented (which often isn't the case with Aussie whiskies). Mildly fruity, then tangy and slightly oily to finish - not particularly long, but all-round impressive and boasting fabulous depth at just 43%. This could be fifteen years old by Scotch Whisky standards, with echoes of Glenglassaugh or Inchgower. Awarded a Gold medal at the World Whisky Masters 2023. Tasted from a 30ml sample.