Comparing the Nc'nean Distillery Samples A & B.
Each a combination of different casks.
Before the launch, the good folks of Nc’nean, are asking for feedback on their exact recipes. The first ever single malt whisky from the Nc’nean Distillery. So, I feel very privileged to volunteer.

Nc’nean A
N: Starts with funky malty notes, very fruity with apple, melon and pine apple. Later a kick of pepper, spices and herbs like star anise. Popcorn and peppermint.
T: Sweet, pepper, honey, also still a bit spirity. Olive oil, ginger, green tea, some floral notes and lemon.
F: Medium drying and malty with tones of cactus and again pepper. I also pick up some spices and lemon grass.
Conclusion: I like this Sample A because of the character. It reminds me of the latest 10-year-old Local Barley from Springbank, which is of course a very big compliment. I assume this is fully matured in Bourbon casks and hope these funky malty tones are the Organic touch.

Nc’nean B
N: Spices, oaky, syrup, caramel and some new make tones. Mint, some floral notes, crème brûlée and blackberries.
T: Malty, tannins (red wine/port?), ginger, orange peel, peach and yeasty notes.
F: A bit drying with spices – cloves as in dry sausage, liquorice and wood charcoal.
Conclusion: more intense than sample A due to cask maturation(?). Looks like first fill sherry (European oak) casks or even an Octave cask (finish).

Overall I would prefer Sample A because of, hopefully, the distillery character. Very tasty and unique character! Please stick with it! Also, A is a bit more complete and ‘round’ to me. Looking forward to the official bottles. Good luck and stay healthy!