Thomson 2017 - 8 Year Old - Barrel #221 The Auld & The Bold (Berry Bros & Rudd)

Profile: The Thomson 2017 - 8 Years - Barrel #221 The Auld & The Bold (Berry Bros & Rudd) at a glance

• New Zealand origin: This whisky comes from New Zealand, bringing a comparatively rare perspective to the world of single malts.
• Distinctive cask influence: Maturation in the single Barrel #221 shapes the style clearly and gives it a distinctive identity.
• Selected by Berry Bros. & Rudd: The renowned bottler is known for carefully chosen casks and releases with a strong sense of character.
• No added colour: Bottled without added colouring, it presents itself in a natural and unadorned way.
• Bold strength: At 52.2% ABV, the whisky offers plenty of presence while remaining balanced enough to enjoy neat.

Portrait: What defines the Thomson 2017 - 8 Years - Barrel #221 The Auld & The Bold (Berry Bros & Rudd)

The Thomson 2017 is a whisky that immediately draws attention through its unusual origin. New Zealand is still far from a traditional whisky heartland, which makes releases like this especially intriguing: they combine independent craftsmanship with a modern, focused style. Berry Bros. & Rudd selected this cask for the “The Auld & The Bold” series, giving an already expressive spirit an additional stage.

Eight years of maturation in Barrel #221 add structure and depth without hiding its lively side. Rather than leaning on heavy-handed power, it balances smoke, spice and gentle sweetness in a very composed way. The result is a whisky that does not settle for one single impression, but layers different nuances and feels notably multifaceted.

With cask strength and no added colouring, this bottling is aimed at drinkers who appreciate authenticity. It feels confident rather than polished for effect – a whisky for those who like to look beyond the familiar routes and discover something surprising that still feels carefully made and coherent.

Tasting Notes: How the Thomson 2017 - 8 Years - Barrel #221 The Auld & The Bold (Berry Bros & Rudd) tastes

• Aroma: Smoky oak notes meet warming spice, joined by a subtle honey sweetness and a clear Manuka-like character.
• Taste: The palate brings together toasted oak, malt and lively freshness, with hints of citrus and a gentle thread of sweetness.
• Finish: The finish stays smoke-led and spicy, with lingering malt and a pleasantly dry close.