Every year on November 23, Het Anker distillery launches a Gouden Carolus Anniversary Edition, honouring of their first whisky release. Each edition is a mix of bourbon and Het Anker casks, finished in specially selected casks.
In 2024 they launched Gouden Carolus Pedro, finished in a nearly 2-year finish on American oak vermouth casks, made from Pedro Ximénez grapes. There’s a nice link since the Pedro Ximénez grape is said to be named after a (Dutch?) soldier who served Emperor Charles V (= Carolus).
We’re not sure but it could be the Alvear vermouth or the Barquero vermouth for instance. There are a few examples within the sherry region as well, but they usually also go for Palomino grapes.
Gouden Carolus Pedro 2024 – Anniversary Edition (46%, OB 2024, 50 cl, 14.500 btl.)
Nose: good balance. The first-fill bourbon stands out with vanilla and coconut hints, even a hint of white rum. Then some dried mango slices and peach, along with a big dose of white grape juice. Even a little Muscat wine, with the typical floral (rose petal) note. Then candied ginger and hints of almond essence.
Mouth: more funky now. Vermouth tends to impart a winey and herbal element – here as well. Orange peels, dried rosemary, a little hazelnut and subtle hints of herbal bitters. The floral note (coming close to roses and lavender, perhaps from the botanicals?) is a little in-your-face, overshadowing the spirit. Then raisins, quince jelly and herbal honey.
Finish: medium length, still fragrant and a little synthetically flavoured.
Vermouth casks are hard to balance. Here as well the floral and herbal elements take over entirely. Very fragant, very un-whisky so definitely not the best expression if you’re discovering Gouden Carolus. A funny experiment that may work as a dessert malt, but not something I would get a bottle of. Still available in their online shop.