Sullivans Cove 16 Year Old French Oak Second-Fill (TD0346)

There is something quietly commanding about this whisky. The Sullivans Cove 16 Year Old French Oak Second-Fill (Cask TD0346) was distilled in December 2008 and bottled in February 2025, yielding just 447 bottles at 47.3%. A single 300-litre French oak second-fill cask guided its gentle maturation, delivering a graceful balance between spirit and oak.

On the nose, it greets you warmly. Honeycomb and maple syrup immediately emerge, followed by soft spices of coriander seed and deep notes reminiscent of Assam tea. Dried orange peel and sweet pimento bring vibrant citrus elements, while a playful suggestion of green jelly adds youthful charm. Beneath it all, a buttery richness promises luxurious depth.

The palate unfolds elegantly, revealing structured tannins akin to a fine espresso. Vanilla bean paste and freshly baked honey muffins mingle with candied fruits and bright orange peel. Complex confectionery notes appear throughout, including hints of cola, sherbet, and glace cherry, harmonising effortlessly.

Its finish demonstrates true finesse. The palate's confectionery sweetness evolves into a waxy texture accented by gentle oak tannins. As it lingers, the dram continues to deepen, revealing layers of black tea, cardamom, cinnamon, and caramelised bananas sauteed in butter and brown sugar. Richness arrives with macadamia nut and honey, complemented by a subtle touch of cayenne pepper warmth without heat.

This whisky perfectly showcases the influence of French oak second-fill maturation, allowing the fruity and floral spirit character to shine through without being overwhelmed. The cask offers structure and subtle spice, enhancing the pure Tasmanian spirit distilled through the copper alembic still named Myrtle. The resulting whisky is luxurious, honeyed, spiced, and remarkably complex, carrying signature notes of anise, herbs, and citrus elegantly from start to finish.

This is a dram that reveals itself gently, inviting quiet contemplation with every sip. Bottled at a robust 47.3%, it carries the depth and elegance of age and the vibrant soul of Tasmanian whisky. Limited to just 447 bottles, this release is both a collector's prize and a whisky worth savouring slowly.