1. The Cutty Sark Prohibition
The Cutty Sark Prohibition Edition was released in 2013 to pay tribute to the bravery of Bill McCoy during the end of Prohibition.
This whisky is characterized by its unique features. It is a small-batch release with an alcohol content of 50%, which is uncommon for blended whiskies. Notably, it skips chill filtration.
According to the official website, American Sherry casks were used in the production. In summary, the key characteristics of this whisky can be summarized as high alcohol content, non-chill filtered, and aged in American Sherry casks.
2. The Cutty Sark Prohibition Edition
1) Cutty Sark History
Cutty Sark is a whisky that was developed by Berry Brothers & Rudd in 1923 in Scotland. It was created to commemorate a famous British clipper ship and was named after the Cutty Sark, a vessel designed to bring Chinese tea to Europe during the Age of Exploration.
With 38 sails, the Cutty Sark was renowned for its speed, outpacing many other ships as it navigated between Europe, Asia, and the Pacific Ocean. The name “Cutty Sark” was chosen to honor the challenging spirit of the ship and its crew, based on the opinion of the renowned artist James McBey, who was himself a former seaman.
During the Prohibition era when counterfeit whiskies were prevalent, Cutty Sark gained popularity as a genuine whisky. William McCoy, a distributor who exclusively handled authentic whiskies during Prohibition, particularly loved Cutty Sark.
After the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, Cutty Sark’s popularity soared, and in 1956, the brand featured its first full-color photo advertisement. By 1961, it became the highest-selling Scotch whisky in the United States.
Cutty Sark has a rich history, blending the maritime heritage of the clipper ship with the appreciation for genuine whisky during challenging times.
2) Tasting Note
Upon opening, it was noted that the cap was cork. The color was described as fairly dark.
In terms of aroma, there were hints of sweetness, citrus, and fruity notes, possibly reminiscent of Western pears. When brought closer to the nose, the higher alcohol content was perceptible, possibly due to the whisky being recently opened.
In terms of taste, initially dominated by dark chocolate, the strength of the alcohol becomes apparent quickly. Following that, there’s a taste of toffee and nuttiness.
The finish is described as a somewhat short maltiness. It might be briefly mistaken for a malt whisky. Although there is a mention of a sherry influence, the strong alcohol presence might make it challenging to fully perceive.
3) On the Rocks, Highball
You described tasting Cutty Sark Prohibition in the forms of On the Rocks and Highball. In my opinion, it was definitely more enjoyable when diluted.
Particularly, I found it better when consumed as a Highball. Personally, I would rate it as better in a Highball than neat On the Rocks.
Since I am still accustomed to whiskies with an alcohol content of 40%, the 50% whisky felt a bit heavy for me.
Therefore, when consumed On the Rocks, the alcohol buzz felt stronger to me. When drinking Cutty Sark Prohibition as a Highball, the toffee and nuttiness, akin to malt and nuts, were more apparent, making it lighter and more enjoyable compared to drinking it neat.
4) Product Information
Product Name: Cutty Sark Prohibition Whisky
Food Type: Whisky
Origin: Scotland (United Kingdom)
Volume and Alcohol: 700ml, 50%
Ingredients: 100% Whisky
Manufacturer: The Glen Turner Company
3. Overall Review
In summary, I find it a bit challenging to enjoy neat due to its higher alcohol content, which imparts a strong warmth. As I experimented with sipping techniques, I could start to appreciate the aroma and taste more. A friend who drank it with me had two glasses and quickly felt the effects.
However, it remains a well-recommended and cost-effective whisky by many. If the 50% alcohol content feels heavy, I recommend trying it as a Highball.