Whisky Review/Tasting: Wemyss Spice King

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The Spice King is a blended malt whisky with components sourced from various distilleries across Scotland, including the Speyside region and the islands.
Type: Blended Malt Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky's spicy character is influenced by the selection of distilleries and the type of wood used for maturation. European wood contributes to the spiciness.
Age Statement: 12 years old.
ABV: 40%.
Color and Clarity: Although not described in detail, the whisky is artificially colored.
Bottle Design: Not specifically described, but it is part of a series from the Wemyss family, suggesting a thematic design across the range.

Balance of Flavors: The Spice King is noted for its sweet and spicy character, without being hot or peppery.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky features a blend of spices, with cinnamon being particularly notable, alongside flavors of Christmas cake and a very subtle hint of smoke.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its profile of sweet spiciness and absence of peppery heat sets it apart.

Wemyss Family: The Wemyss family, investors behind the Kingsbarns distillery in the Old Kingdom of Fife, have a long-standing passion for whisky. The family seat, Wemyss Castle, has a history of over 800 years.
Craft and Art: The creation of Spice King is described as both a craft and an art, with each batch potentially offering slight variations in taste due to the meticulous cask selection and blending process.

Scottish Heritage: The whisky embodies the rich Scottish whisky-making tradition, with its blend sourced from across Scotland's renowned whisky regions.
Wemyss Castle: The historical significance of the Wemyss family's ancestral home adds a layer of cultural depth to the Spice King's story.

Horst Luening, the master taster, appreciates the whisky's sweet spiciness and the craftsmanship behind its creation, stating, "well done, very well selected. I like it very much."

Spice King is a 12-year-old blended malt whisky with a sweet and spicy profile, featuring cinnamon and a hint of smoke.
It is part of a series from the Wemyss family, who have a deep-rooted history in the Old Kingdom of Fife.
The whisky's character is shaped by the selection of distilleries and the type of wood used for maturation.
Each batch of Spice King may have slight variations, highlighting the craft and art behind its creation.
The Wemyss family's historical connection adds cultural significance to the whisky.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring the nuanced craft of blended malt whiskies and the influence of wood on flavor.
For History and Culture Buffs: Individuals fascinated by the rich heritage of Scottish whisky and the stories of historic families like the Wemyss.
For Sweet Profile Lovers: Whisky drinkers who prefer a sweet profile with a complex blend of spices, without the heat of peppery spices.