New Make Spirit refers to the clear liquid that is produced during distillation and hasn’t yet spent time maturing in oak barrels. We are starting to see more brands bottle their New Make and release it as Unaged Whisky, either at a Still Strength of 68% or diluted to a more palatable 50%.
Unaged Whisky has a much different flavour profile than its aged counterpart, offering a much more intense and powerful taste. The nose is dominated by the sweet aromas of the grains used to produce the whisky, with notes of floral, spice, and even some fruit. The palate is much more intense, with a stronger spirit character and a bold mix of flavours. The finish is often dry, with lingering spiciness and a hint of sweetness.
If you’re new to whisky don’t start here. If you’re a seasoned whisky drinker it can be an interesting spirit to try.
