Bain's Single Grain

Profile: The Bain's Single Grain at a glance

• South African original: Whisky from Wellington at the Bains Kloof Pass
• Sun-ripened: Short maturation period thanks to the warm climate
• Single grain: Smooth, elegant, and pleasantly approachable
• Plenty of vanilla: Creamy sweetness meets exotic fruit
• Naturally charming: No smoke, but with Cape flair

Portrait: What makes the Bain's Single Grain special

Imagine a whisky goes on vacation to South Africa - and simply stays there. This is more or less how the story of Bain's Single Grain Cape Mountain Whisky could begin. Instead of trudging through misty Highlands or maturing in Scottish rain clouds, this single grain prefers sunny days at the foot of the Bains Kloof Pass in Wellington, South Africa - overlooking the Berg River and guaranteed without an umbrella.

Distilling has taken place there for over 150 years - presumably with sunglasses instead of a hat - and you can taste it. Let's put it this way: This whisky has style, poise, and the charm of a relaxed safari guide in a suit.

As a single grain, it doesn't play the heavy Highland card, but comes across lightly – a kind of gentleman in a linen shirt. The maturation period is quite short thanks to the South African climate, which is perfectly fine, because with so much sun, you don't have to hang around in the barrel forever to develop character.

You could say Bain's is the relaxed cousin of Scottish whiskies: same pedigree, different philosophy of life. While the Scots hide in the fog, this South African prefers to let the sun shine on the barrel lid – and with good reason.

In short: Bain's is proof that whisky doesn't always have to come from Scotland to make an impression. Sometimes a bit of sun, patience, and a damn good spot in the middle of the Cape Mountains is all it takes. And yes – a whisky with wanderlust that is now simply at home.

Tasting Notes: This is how the Bain's Single Grain tastes like

• Nose: A creamy opening with aromas of vanilla and fresh cream, almost like a dessert in a glass. Added to this is the sweetness of brown cane sugar, which combines with the fruity freshness of grapefruit. In the background, a hint of nutmeg provides spicy depth
• Palate: Soft, round, and pleasantly approachable. The vanilla is in the foreground and provides a velvety mouthfeel. Then, fruity notes of ripe banana and juicy pear unfold. Spicy oak and a hint of cardamom provide a subtle counterpoint on the finish
• Finish: Medium-long and surprisingly fresh. The grapefruit returns once again, now accompanied by light herbal notes. A rounded finish with an elegant aftertaste