Stonewood Smokey Monk (Germany) 3 Years Review/Tasting

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Bavaria, Germany.
Type: Single Malt Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Matured in oak casks.
Age Statement: 3 years, with a vintage of 2012.
Color and Bottle Design: The specific color of the whisky isn't detailed, but the bottle design is described as standard with the distillery's seal on top. Each bottle has a vintage year and number written on it, indicating a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a unique balance between a sweet note at the beginning followed by a distinctive smokiness.
Unique Characteristics: Unlike traditional peaty malts, Stonewood Smokey Monk uses beechwood-smoked malt, offering a different kind of smokiness reminiscent of smoked ham or sausage. There's also a hint of red wine notes, adding complexity.
Comparison: This whisky stands out for its unique use of beechwood for smoking the malt, differing significantly from peat-smoked whiskies. The flavor profile is notably different, with comparisons made to smoked meats rather than the medicinal or barbecue notes found in some peat-smoked whiskies.

The Schrammel Distillery, where Stonewood Smokey Monk is produced, has a history as a monastery before becoming a distillery. This heritage is playfully referenced in the whisky's name.
The use of beechwood for smoking the malt is tied to the distiller's personal history, with a mention of a beech tree growing in the distiller's childhood home.

Beechwood, used for smoking the malt, is highlighted as a common tree in Europe, suggesting a regional approach to flavoring the whisky that might be unique compared to other whisky-producing regions.
The transition from a monastery to a distillery adds a layer of historical and cultural depth to the distillery and its products.

"It's a phenomenal smoke... it's not as hardcore and dry... it's a living smoke."
"Really different to smoke your malt on a beech fire."
"If you want to impress your friends with hey this is a whisky but it's really different stuff, I would recommend this one."

Stonewood Smokey Monk is a unique single malt whisky from Bavaria, Germany, aged for 3 years.
It features a distinctive smoky flavor from beechwood-smoked malt, differing from traditional peat-smoked whiskies.
The whisky has historical ties to a monastery, adding to its storytelling appeal.
Its flavor profile includes smoked ham or sausage notes, with a hint of red wine, offering a complex tasting experience.
Recommended for those looking to explore a different style of smoky whisky or to impress friends with something unique.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring unique smoking methods and regional flavors.
For Adventurous Drinkers: Individuals looking for a whisky that breaks from traditional peat-smoked profiles.
For Social Impressors: People aiming to share and enjoy a distinctive and conversation-starting whisky with friends.