Penderyn Rich Oak Single Cask Whisky
ABV: Varies by cask (typically 58-61%) | Origin: Penderyn, Brecon Beacons, Wales

Penderyn Rich Oak Single Cask Whisky is a premium Welsh single malt that showcases the distillery's commitment to exceptional quality and innovation. Aged in carefully selected oak casks, this expression brings out a deep, rich character with complex layers of flavor. The nose is inviting with aromas of toasted oak, dried fruit, and a hint of vanilla. On the palate, it reveals a wonderful balance of warm spices, toffee, and dark chocolate, with the oak adding a subtle smokiness and depth. The finish is long and smooth, with lingering notes of rich fruit and oak. Penderyn Rich Oak Single Cask is a delightful choice for whisky enthusiasts seeking a robust and well-rounded Welsh whisky experience.

Tasting Profile

• Nose: Dark chocolate fudge, cinnamon spice, tropical fruits (mango, guava), and rich oak
• Palate: Creamy vanilla, toffee, spiced apple, and a bold oak backbone
• Finish: Long and warm with lingering vanilla, oak tannins, and a hint of nuttiness

Production Details

• Distillation method: Single distilled in Faraday copper stills
• Cask type(s):
  • Initially matured in ex-bourbon barrels (American oak)
  • Finished in rejuvenated European ex-wine casks (often STR—shaved, toasted, re-charred)
• Special processes:
  • Crafted from malted barley, blended with Brecon Beacons spring water
  • Single cask bottling, non-chill filtered, natural color
  • Aged until peak maturity (varies by release, often 10-15 years)
  • Bottled at cask strength, unique to each barrel

Perfect For

• Whisky collectors chasing rare single cask expressions
• Sipping neat to explore its intense oak-driven character
• Pairing with dark chocolate or spiced desserts
• Gifting as a premium Welsh whisky with a story
• Those who love bold, unfiltered flavors

Expert Notes

• Part of Penderyn’s limited single cask series, not a core range offering
• Showcases the distillery’s mastery of oak influence over their light spirit
• Often finished in STR casks, amplifying fruit and spice notes
• Gold winner at IWSC 2018 for a 59.8% ABV release
• Reflects Penderyn’s innovative approach to Welsh whisky

Customer Reviews

• “Rich oak and tropical fruit—pure decadence!” – Gareth W. ★★★★★
• “Bold yet creamy; the finish lasts forever.” – Elin J. ★★★★☆
• “A standout single cask—worth every penny!” – Dafydd L. ★★★★☆

Interesting Facts

• Penderyn revived Welsh whisky in 2004 after a 100-year gap
• Single cask releases are hand-selected for exceptional quality
• STR casks (shaved, toasted, re-charred) are a nod to Dr. Jim Swan’s influence
• Each bottle is numbered, often yielding 200-300 per cask
• The Rich Oak name celebrates Wales’ rare, precious gold heritage

Serving Suggestions

• Sip neat to savor its cask-strength intensity
• Add a drop of water to soften oak and lift fruit notes
• Pair with toffee pudding, roasted nuts, or aged cheddar
• Serve in a Glencairn glass for aromatic depth
• Enjoy at room temperature to fully appreciate its richness

Distillery

• Penderyn Distillery, founded in 1998, is Wales’ whisky pioneer
• Located in the Brecon Beacons, using local spring water
• Uses a unique Faraday still, yielding high-purity spirit
• Led by an all-female distilling team, a rarity in the industry
• Known for award-winning single malts and innovative cask finishes