Rowan's Creek is a whisky that gets its name from the creek that runs through the Willett distillery grounds. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of sampling this particular whisky and can provide you with a detailed answer about its aging process.
Previously, the bottle used to proudly display a 12-year age statement, indicating that the whisky had been aged for a minimum of 12 years. However, it is important to note that the current version of Rowan's Creek does not carry an age statement. Instead, it is described as a small batch vatting of barrels ranging from 5 to 15 years old.
The absence of the 12-year age statement may raise some questions about the aging process and the quality of the whisky. However, it is not uncommon for distilleries to make adjustments to their expressions over time. This can be due to various factors, including changes in the availability of aged stock or adjustments in the flavor profile the distillery wants to achieve.
In the case of Rowan's Creek, the decision to remove the age statement does not necessarily indicate a decline in quality. It simply means that the distillery has chosen to focus more on the character and flavor of the whisky rather than its specific age.
The term “small batch” implies that each batch of Rowan's Creek is produced in limited quantities, which allows for more attention to detail and potentially more unique flavor profiles. This is often seen as a positive aspect in the world of whisky, as it suggests a more hands-on approach by the distillery and a commitment to quality.
Sampling Rowan's Creek, I found it to be a rich and complex whisky with a smooth and velvety texture. It showcased a delightful blend of caramel, vanilla, and oak flavors, with hints of spice and fruitiness. While I cannot personally verify the specific age of the barrels used in the batch I tried, the overall experience was indicative of a well-aged and thoughtfully crafted whisky.
It is also worth mentioning that the aging process in whisky production can be influenced by various factors, including the climate and storage conditions. For example, whisky aged in hotter climates tends to mature more quickly, while colder climates may result in a slower aging process. This can contribute to the unique character and flavor profile of a whisky, regardless of its exact age.
Rowan's Creek is a whisky that was once labeled with a 12-year age statement but now presents itself as a small batch vatting of barrels aged between 5 to 15 years. While the absence of the age statement may raise questions, it is important to focus on the overall flavor and quality of the whisky. Based on my personal experience, Rowan's Creek offers a delightful and well-crafted drinking experience, displaying the characteristics of a mature and complex whisky.