Sullivans Cove 16 Year Old American Oak 'Old And Rare' (TD054) Single Malt Whisky 700ml

GOLD MEDAL WINNER | WORLD WHISKIES AWARDS 2024
Single Malt Single Cask 13-20yo

The Old & Rare American Oak undergoes a minimum maturation period of sixteen years in American oak casks previously utilized for aging bourbon. This particular single cask whisky exhibits an impressive level of complexity and a long-lasting palate experience. It boasts a rich and oaky flavor profile, with a significant textural presence, while still retaining the distinctive brightness and character of Sullivans Cove's unique spirit. In 2018, it received the esteemed recognition of being awarded the "World's Best Single Cask Single Malt" at the World Whiskies Awards.

A brand, a bottle, a label…a sticker. None of this needs any introduction when it comes to this Australian Distillery. It’s been hard to keep this one quiet, hailing from Hobart we give you our first single cask release with the one and only Sullivans Cove!

Backing every release with the best whisky we believe we can find in each distillery we work with, this cask selection is no let down either.

We have been knocking persistently on the good people at Sullivans Coves doors for as long as any, proud to bring our group this single cask.

Official tasting notes

Nose: Bursting with juicy and bright tropical fruits, honeycomb and white flowers. There is a sweet and earthy base to the nose quite like banana bread and carrot cake, both with cream cheese icing. Creaming soda and apricot danish come next, followed by a really sweet warm ginger and nutmeg note. With air the fresh fruits take over (kiwi and pineapple) and slowly syrup up – SPC tinned peaches with cream, and chocolate wafer sticks.   

Palate: A gentle and seamless transition brings warm stone fruits, cinnamon scrolls, nutmeg and more creaming soda - this second fill American oak cask had so much beautiful soft spice and sweetness to give! A gentle grip of oak takes hold for just a moment, as the oily viscosity of Sullivans Cove spirit washes across the entire palate. There is a distinct salinity and aniseed character (Sullivans Cove spirit again!), and the structure is broad, swelling into the finish with mango nectar, frangipani and a milk bottle lolly base.              

Finish: The finish brings a wash of coconut sugar and sweet custard scrolls as a prickle of spirit breaks through what can only be described as a haze of confection-driven American oak influence. Full of apple skins and liquorice, there are further nuances of lemon and orange blossom all the way to the end.     

Overall Comments: A broad and delightful whisky, with impeccable structure, and all the things that make American oak and Sullivans Cove such a great pair. This second-fill barrel had so much to give, and the oily viscosity of Sullivans Cove spirit have proved the perfect carrier of all that flavour. After almost 17 years of careful maturation under the watchful eye of Sullivans Cove, this single cask is to be celebrated for all of its nuance – not least of all it’s deliciousness!

To enhance its exclusivity, each bottle of this whisky is meticulously presented in a one-of-a-kind, handcrafted, solid wood presentation box. Furthermore, it includes a letter of authenticity, personally signed by our esteemed Head Distiller, Heather Tillott. These whiskies are a true rarity and a significant milestone for both Sullivans Cove and the Australian Whisky Industry. They hold a special position in the history of Australian whisky and are regarded as a prized collector's item.