1. Naked Malt
Today’s topic is Naked Malt. This product is a blended malt whisky that includes famous single malts such as Macallan, Highland Park, and Glenrothes (it does not include any grain whisky).
A distinctive feature is that it is finished for 6 months in first-fill Oloroso Sherry oak casks. The blending process harmoniously integrates the various malts, producing a rich flavor and aroma.
First-fill Oloroso Sherry oak casks refer to casks from Spain that held Oloroso Sherry wine and, after the wine was removed, were used to age whisky for the first time. First-fill refers to the first batch of whisky put into the cask after the wine has been removed, with the second use called second-fill.
Naked Malt was rebranded from Naked Grouse. While the liquid remains the same, the bottle design has changed, removing the original grouse symbol and prominently featuring the word Naked.
The age is not specifically stated, labeled as NAS, and it is available at an affordable price. It is definitely a budget-friendly whisky that clearly showcases the characteristics of Sherry, complete with embossed patterns on the front and a wooden cork.
2. Naked Malt Story
1) The famous Grouse
The Famous Grouse was founded in the 1800s by Matthew Gloag, starting as a grocery store. It began handling Highland whisky in 1814. The Grouse was first launched in 1896, and it became famous thereafter, with “Famous” being added to its name.
The grouse is a bird that is a symbol of Scotland, where there is a tradition of bird hunting. This product achieved tremendous sales through marketing specialized for the hunting season.
Then, it became famous among nobility after supplying liquor to the residence of Queen Victoria, which led to a surge in sales. As a result, Grouse whisky features the Royal Warrant of the British royal family, although Naked Malt does not have this warrant.
2) Tasting Notes
In Scotch whisky, the addition of color is permitted, so the color does not hold significant meaning. However, the color does strongly convey the image of a Sherry whisky. The legs do not appear very deep, and the aroma includes scents typical of Sherry whisky, such as bright orange citrus and sweet vanilla or caramel.
The taste is very smooth, with sweetness followed by a slight saltiness. There are hints of maltiness and a woody flavor, though not overpowering. The finish is not long and feels light.
3) Product Information
Product Name: Naked Malt Blended Malt Scotch Whisky
Origin: United Kingdom
Product Type: Whisky
Alcohol Content & Volume: 40%, 700ml
3. Overall Review
It’s a whisky that perfectly embodies the smooth Sherry feel, making it great for daily drinking due to its value for money. It reminds me of Tamnavulin Sherry Cask, but it’s lighter and smoother than the Famous Grouse Sherry Cask Finish, making it great for daily consumption.
Additionally, the involvement of Balvenie’s David Stewart is evident as his signature is on the bottom of the bottle. Lastly, if I were to consider repurchasing, having tasted various whiskies for this review, I would likely spend a bit more on a different Sherry whisky.