Review – SIA Scotch Whisky

I think we can all agree that whiskey is definitely an acquired taste.  For some of us, myself near the head of the line, that acquisition process is very quick and soon turns into a full blown love affair.  For others, they never get it.  I’d dare say, some folks are likely baffled by why people drink whiskey at all.  Carin Luna-Ostaseski, founder of SIA Scotch Whisky was firmly in the “I’m not sure I get this” camp when she first sampled Scotch with friends.  Thankfully she had a determined friend who quizzed her on her favorite cocktails, wines and foods.  Armed with this new knowledge, he was able to guide Carin to whiskies that she truly enjoyed.  This realization that whiskey has many facets, began her journey to bring to market a new Scotch whisky tuned for the palate of her target audience, whisky virgins and enthusiasts alike with a modern palate.  Finally, to bring her dream to reality, she appealed to the masses on Kickstarter and their funding told her she was on the right track.  And now it’s here.

SIA Scotch Whisky (from the Scotch Gaelic word six) shows itself as a light honey/amber color.  The aroma is awash with hints of dried fruit, fruitcake and sherry with herbal/medicinal notes floating in the background.  The flavor brings a subtle sweetness of caramel, vanilla and a hint of fruit.  There is a bare hint of smoke and medicinal peat that lets you know you’re drinking a Scotch whisky.  The finish is long and light with hints of toasted cereal grains and honey.

This is definitely a lighter whisky and I can certainly see where it would appeal to whisky virgins.  SIA doesn’t punch you with peat, smoke or aggressive flavors.  But, I can see the appeal for whisky enthusiasts as well.  You get nuances of a lot of Scotch whisky regions but the whole remains harmonious.  I can definitely see myself reaching for a dram of SIA when I’m looking for something lighter that still brings an interesting flavor spectrum.

† The product reviewed here was provided to me as a free sample. If you’re wondering what that means check out my sample policy.