This isn’t officially a whisky yet, since it’s only 11 months old and far short of the three years required under Canadian law, but it’s the first single malt spirit from Graeme Macaloney’s Victoria Caledonian brand since his distillery opened in British Columbia. “Mac na Braiche” is Scots Gaelic for “single malt,” and this spirit was matured in a recharred red wine barrique using the method created by the late Dr. Jim Swan. ‘

The nose is fruity with peaches, red apples, red grapes, a hint of brandy, muted spices, and a touch of molasses cookies for a well-balanced aroma. The taste is thick and chewy with good fruity notes at first, then the spices come alive with notes of clove, white pepper, and cardamom lasting through the finish, which is medium-length with those lingering spices and hints of tree fruits in the background. This is still young, but shows good promise for the future. (January, 2018)