Whisky: Wendel Clark Limited Edition NHL Alumni Whisky Series
Producer: Pernod Ricard
Distillery: Hiram Walker
Whisky Type: 100% Canadian Rye
Region: Windsor, Ontario
Age: 11-Year-old
ABV: 41,6%
Aged in Cask: Ex-bourbon barrels
Release: 2018-2019 Edition
Price Range: $
In the spirit of the Stanley Cup that started on May 2, I selected a set of three limited-edition whiskies from Hiram Walker that pay tribute to three Hall of Famers from the NHL. These whiskies belong to a collection known as the Alumni Whisky Series. In November of last year, I pre-ordered these three whiskies and picked them up at the Hiram Walker Distillery during my visit.
From the J.P. Wiser’s Website:
“The Alumni Association and award-winning whisky maker J.P. Wiser’s honor the past by co-creating this premium, collectible, and one-of-a-kind Canadian whisky series. Each player’s whisky is uniquely crafted to commemorate the featured Alumni, matching their playing style and notable achievements. Proceeds received by the Alumni are invested back into local hockey initiatives across the country while supporting the retired player community.”
Wendel Clark
Born: October 25, 1966
Birthplace: Kelvington, SK, CAN
Jersey #: 17
Shoots: Left
Position: Left wing
Draft: 1985 TOR, 1st round, 1st pick (1st overall)
NHL Career: 1985-2000
Team: Played most of his career with the Toronto Maple Leafs and was a two-time captain.
Playing Style: Bold and Tenacious. A physical style with scoring ability.
Awards:
- NHL All-Rookie Team in 1985. An award equivalent to rookie of the year in baseball.
- All Start Player in 1986 and 1999.
- Inducted into the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame in 2011.
- #17 jersey retired by the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Notes for Wendel Clark Limited Edition Canadian Rye
Wendel Clark is a 100% rye whiskey bottled at 41.6% ABV, based on one of Toronto’s area codes 416, and aged in ex-bourbon barrels. I believe this bottle was from the first release, so it was available only in Ontario. Second release bottles are available nationally.
Nose: A classic bourbon nose of caramel, but baking spices (i.e., vanilla, clove, and cinnamon) are also noticeable.
Palate: Fruity and creamy arrival. Rye spices also come to play, but do not overwhelm. This expression is not as rye-forward as other expressions of Hiram Walker, yet the rye spices hang with the sweet notes, which take a leading role in the experience.
Finish: The finish is short to medium and sweet.
Conclusion: Wendel Clark Canadian Rye is sweet and spicy. Although it does not have the depth, oak intensity, and finish of Lot 40, it offers a sweet and pleasant experience. Bourbon fans will enjoy this tasty Canadian Rye. Cheers!
Click here for more information and reviews from Canadian distillers like Hiram Walker here:
Score: 3.25/5⭐
Legend
$50 or less $
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