Enjoyed: Sunday, April 28, 2024

Listed on the menu: Yes, as “Cuvee Single Cask Old Fashion”

Ingredients: Courage and Conviction Cuvee Single Cask Whisky, Raspberry Syrup, Chocolate Bitters

The occasion: After waiting patiently for warm weather, spring vegetation, and a date that we were all free, our little group of friends headed out to Virginia Distillery Company, just a short drive south of town. We had all tried the distillery’s products before, yet here was an opportunity for flights and cocktails and side-by-side comparisons, all while basking in the sun and admiring the scenery.

My rating: ***** out of 5. The cuvee cask whisky (yes, the distillery spells it the Scottish way with no “e”) is aged in European red wine barrels that have been shaved, re-toasted, and re-charred, so imparting just enough of a sweet fruity flavor. I wondered if the addition of the raspberry syrup would make the drink cloyingly sweet, but this was not the case. The fruitiness was subtle; whisky was definitely the main flavor. This cocktail had a luscious mouth-feel and a pleasing color, and was easy to sip.

Final thoughts: I wish this distillery were a little closer to home. Then again, a forty minute drive with good company does go by quickly.