If you’re a whisky enthusiast looking to expand your horizons, Swedish whisky is an exciting category to explore. With its distinct flavors and unique production process, Swedish whisky has gained recognition in the global whisky scene. From single malts to innovative blends, Swedish distilleries offer a diverse range of options for every whisky lover.
Swedish whisky, with its rich taste and varied options, provides a delightful exploration for whisky lovers. As the world of whisky continues to expand from the Highlands of Scotland to the distilleries of Sweden, enthusiasts are invited to discover new flavors and experiences. Continue reading to uncover the hidden gems of Swedish whisky that await your palate.
The Story Behind Mackmyra Distillery
Mackmyra Distillery has a fascinating origin story. It was established in 1998 after a group of eight friends met during a skiing holiday. Each individual brought a bottle of whisky, sparking the idea to create Sweden’s whisky distillery. Since then, Mackmyra has grown to become the primary whisky producer in Sweden.
At Mackmyra Distillery, we believe in the importance of quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Our journey began with a shared passion for whisky and a desire to put Sweden on the map as a whisky-producing nation. We are proud to have created whiskies that showcase the unique flavors and characteristics of our local terroir.
Using pure water sourced from nearby springs, combined with locally grown barley and traditional Swedish oak casks, we aim to craft whiskies that capture the essence of our beautiful country. Our dedication to innovation is reflected in our maturation techniques, where we experiment with various cask types and finishes to produce whiskies with distinct profiles. This commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities is what sets Mackmyra apart in the world of Swedish whisky.
Throughout the years, Mackmyra Whiskies have garnered worldwide recognition and awards, solidifying our position as a leading Swedish distillery. We continue to push the boundaries of whisky production, showcasing the creativity and innovation that define the Swedish whisky industry.
7 Mackmyra Distillery Expressions
Mackmyra Distillery offers a diverse range of whisky expressions, each showcasing the creativity and innovation of Swedish whisky production. From unaged spirits to well-matured releases, these expressions provide a unique tasting experience for whisky enthusiasts. Here are seven notable expressions from Mackmyra, each with its distinct characteristics and flavor profiles:
1. Vit Hund – The Youngest Dram From Mackmyra
Vit Hund, which translates to “White Dog,” is Mackmyra’s youngest and freshest expression. It is reminiscent of a new-make spirit, with a clear appearance and a rich, boozy nose. Despite its young age, Vit Hund surprises with its complex flavors. The use of pure water to lower the alcohol by volume (ABV) to 46.1% creates a smooth and well-balanced whisky. The nose offers notes of barley, sweetness, and citrus fruit, while the taste reveals fruity and citrusy flavors. The finish leaves a soft and pleasant aftertaste, showcasing the importance of raw ingredients in whisky production.
2. Brukswhisky – The “Picnic Whisky”
When it comes to Mackmyra’s core range, Brukswhisky stands out as the youngest and most vibrant option. This fresh and fruity whisky is matured predominantly in first-fill bourbon barrels, resulting in a light and crisp dram that is perfect for outdoor gatherings or picnics.
Mackmyra focuses on innovative techniques to create a unique expression of Brukswhisky. By maturing the whisky in first-fill bourbon barrels, they draw out the fresh and fruity notes that make it so enjoyable.
When you take a sip of Brukswhisky, you’ll be greeted with a nose filled with delightful fruity aromas, accompanied by hints of citrus and grass. The taste is sweet and satisfying, with flavors of vanilla, nuttiness, and citrus fruits dancing on your palate. The whisky finishes smoothly, leaving you with a soft and pleasant aftertaste.
If you’re looking for a whisky that embodies the spirit of a picnic, Brukswhisky is the perfect choice. Its light and refreshing character, along with its fruity and citrusy flavors, make it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures and sunny days. So pack a bottle of Brukswhisky and experience the joy of Swedish craftsmanship wherever you go.
3. Svensk Ek – A Blend of Cask Seasonings
Svensk Ek, meaning “Swedish Oak,” is a slightly older expression from Mackmyra. It is a blend of whiskies aged between 7 and 9 years, with 50% matured in first-fill bourbon barrels, 40% in sherry oloroso casks, and 10% in Swedish oak casks.
The maturation process of Svensk Ek involves the influence of different cask seasonings, resulting in a complex and traditional whisky. The use of Swedish oak casks adds a distinct character to the whisky, enhancing its flavors and aromas.
The nose of Svensk Ek offers butterscotch sweetness and woody aromas. As you take a sip, you are greeted with a rich and sweet taste, revealing notes of Demerara sugar, vanilla fudge, and oak. The combination of bourbon and sherry oloroso casks creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the palate.
On the finish, Svensk Ek delivers a pleasant spiciness, with hints of black pepper, leaving a lingering warmth that complements the overall experience. The influence of woody flavors in whisky is prominent in this expression, showcasing the craftsmanship of Mackmyra’s maturation process.
4. Svensk Rök – Mackmyra’s Peated Whisky
When it comes to peated whiskies, Mackmyra’s Svensk Rök stands out as a fine example of Swedish craftsmanship. Unlike heavily peated expressions from other distilleries, Svensk Rök offers a balanced and well-integrated peat flavor that will please whisky enthusiasts seeking a unique and refined drinking experience.
The secret behind Svensk Rök’s distinctive character lies in its careful production process. During the malting phase, juniper is burned on the peat fires, infusing the whisky with a subtle hint of juniper smoke. This unique touch adds complexity and depth to the overall profile.
On the nose, Svensk Rök reveals enticing orange fruit and delicate floral notes, signaling the complexity to come. Upon tasting, its soft and creamy mouthfeel envelopes the palate, with pleasant vanilla flavors coating the tongue. The balanced and gentle peat offers a subtle smokiness that never overwhelms the senses. It’s a whisky that harmoniously blends the peat and vanilla elements, resulting in a well-rounded and satisfying flavor profile.
Mackmyra’s Svensk Rök is a testament to the distillery’s commitment to innovation and quality. By creating a peated whisky with balanced flavors and unique elements, they have added a distinguished addition to their renowned whisky range. Whether you’re a connoisseur of peated whiskies or curious to explore something new, Svensk Rök is a must-try for any whisky enthusiast.
5. Mackmyra Ten Years – A Milestone Release
Mackmyra Ten Years is a significant release for us at Mackmyra Distillery. This whisky marks our first venture into the world of age statement whiskies, showcasing our commitment to crafting exceptional spirits with a well-developed and balanced flavor profile.
While Mackmyra Ten Years may not be our oldest expression, it is a temporary release that represents a milestone in our whisky journey. Through meticulous maturation and skilled craftsmanship, we have created a whisky that captures the essence of our unique distilling process and highlights the development of flavors over time.
Opening a bottle of Mackmyra Ten Years, you’ll be greeted with a captivating nose filled with bright vanilla notes and the inviting aroma of syrupy bourbon barrel influence. As you take your first sip, you’ll experience a creamy and sweet vanilla character on the palate, complemented by delicate hints of sherry fruitiness.
The finish is where Mackmyra Ten Years truly shines, bringing forth the original fruity flavors of the whisky and leaving you with a satisfying aftertaste. This whisky is part of our seasonal range, carefully curated to showcase the unique characteristics and exceptional quality that define our brand.
Discover Mackmyra Ten Years and embark on a journey through the rich flavors and distinctive character of our Swedish whisky. Join us in celebrating this remarkable release, which represents the culmination of years of dedication to our craft and a true reflection of our commitment to producing high-quality whiskies.
6. Malström – A Rare Small Batch Expression
Malström is a rare small batch expression from Mackmyra, released as part of their Moments range. It is matured in a combination of five different cask types, including their smaller 30-liter casks, first-fill bourbon, Swedish oak, Oloroso sherry, and Pedro Ximenez sherry. This whisky offers deep, dark, and rich flavors reminiscent of a fruitcake. The nose reveals thick fruit cake aromas with dark currant and sherry notes. The taste is full-bodied and oily, with flavors of rich fruit and a sherry-like finish.
Malström demonstrates Mackmyra’s expertise in maturation and creating complex and unique whiskies. It is highly sought after by whisky enthusiasts and collectors.
7. Vinterträdgärd – A Unique Winter Garden Expression
Vinterträdgärd is another limited release from Mackmyra’s Moments range. This expression is matured in casks that previously held lingonberry wine and raspberry wine, giving it a distinctive Scandinavian influence. The nose offers sticky, sweet red berry aromas, while the taste is juicy and packed with berry flavors. The finish is thick and syrupy, leaving a sweet and fruity coating on the palate. Vinterträdgärd is a unique variation of Swedish whisky, resembling a dessert wine with a boozy twist. It is a delightful dram to savor and enjoy during special occasions.
Swedish Whisky – Creativity and Innovation
Swedish whisky is renowned for its exceptional creativity, innovation, and unique characteristics. Distilleries such as High Coast, formerly known as Box, are at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of whisky production with their unconventional approach. At High Coast, whisky enthusiasts can experience a complexity of flavors that offer a clean and enjoyable drinking experience.
Expressions like Hav and Timmer from High Coast Distillery showcase the distillery’s ability to use gentle smoke and mossy flavors creatively, resulting in a distinct flavor profile. Swedish distilleries, including High Coast, embrace their individuality and aim to create whiskies distinct from Scotch, prioritizing quality ingredients and innovative maturation techniques.
Whether you are a whisky connoisseur or a novice enthusiast, exploring Swedish whisky will introduce you to a world of creative craftsmanship and innovative production methods. The unique characteristics and flavors found in Swedish whiskies set them apart, making them a captivating addition to any whisky collection. Embrace the innovation and creativity of Swedish whisky and embark on a journey of discovery.
Exploring the Whisky Selection at Systembolaget
When in Sweden, it is worth visiting Systembolaget, the state-owned off-license chain responsible for the sale of alcohol. Systembolaget offers a wide selection of whiskies, including Swedish brands such as Mackmyra. The stores are well-organized, bright, and offer a pleasant shopping experience. Systembolaget ensures fair and regulated retail practices, with equal exposure for all brands, as there is no advertising or promotional dominance from large brands. The stores provide a clean and cheerful atmosphere, allowing customers to explore and discover a variety of whiskies from both local and international distilleries.
- Wide whisky selection: Systembolaget boasts an extensive range of whiskies, catering to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re seeking Swedish whisky or international brands, you’ll find an impressive array of options.
- Fair and regulated retail experience: Systembolaget operates under Swedish alcohol regulations, ensuring a level playing field for all brands. This means that smaller and boutique distilleries have an equal chance to showcase their products, creating a diverse and inclusive retail environment.
- Swedish alcohol regulations: Sweden has strict regulations when it comes to the sale of alcohol, and Systembolaget serves as the primary outlet for purchasing alcoholic beverages. These regulations aim to promote responsible consumption and maintain high retail standards.
- Buying whisky in Sweden: Purchasing whisky in Sweden is a seamless experience at Systembolaget. The stores are well-stocked, with knowledgeable staff available to assist customers in making informed choices.
Swedish Whisky – A Unique Category To Explore
Swedish whisky offers an exciting and diverse tasting experience with its distinct flavors and innovative production methods. Mackmyra Distillery, among others, showcases the creativity and quality of Swedish whisky through its unique expressions.
What sets Swedish whisky apart from Scotch is its unique flavors and characteristics. Whether you prefer fruity, smoky, or traditional whisky styles, Swedish distilleries have something to offer. This unique category showcases the diversity of whisky options available, providing a chance to discover new and exciting flavors.
Are you passionate about whisky? Don’t stop at Sweden! Learn all about Scotland’s iconic whiskies, their unique production methods, and signature flavors. Explore our in-depth articles, tasting notes, and expert reviews at Scotland Whisky.