Bain's Cape Mountain Whisky (Single Grain Whisky)

Nose: This has a light fruity scent that leans toward the citrusy. Later sniffs bring out a very light mint note. Palate: This is a very light whisky that reminds me of a mild Canadian whiskey. The mouthfeel is a bit watery and thin, but it is inoffensive. The main flavor on this tends to be toward the grainy side, with a mild aftertaste that is rather nondescript. There is a mild vanilla flavor, but it is different that the typical vanilla you get from a bourbon, primarily not as intense. The finish on this is on the short side. There’s very little heat going on in this and even the warming factor is rather short. It is an easy drinker but it is not at all complex and won’t have you thinking too much on what flavors are competing with each other, because there really aren’t many. There is nothing wrong with this whisky and it is a perfectly acceptable sip, but if you are looking for something with more substance, you won’t find it here. I do think that if you favor Canadian whiskey that you will likely enjoy this very much. Comments: I bought this to expand the saloon’s “international profile”. Bain’s comes to us all the way from South Africa. It is not only the only whisky out of South Africa, it is the only whisky produced on the whole continent. It is made with 100% South African grown corn. This whisky undergoes a five year, double maturation process. The first is in previously used ex-bourbon barrels for 3 years, followed by 2 years in another set of first fill ex-bourbon barrels. Despite the 100% corn mashbill, there really aren’t many hints of moonshine in its taste or nose. The good news is, this is not expensive, so if you are looking to add a very interesting whisky from a different part of the world, it is a perfect choice. Will it become your favorite or your daily drinker? Probably not, but that’s OK. It serves its purpose perfectly as unique conversations starter. And, it is smooth and mild enough, that it is both easy to have a second glass AND makes a good choice for an international introduction to whisky for the novice imbiber. This clocks in at 86 proof and sells in the low $30 range. There is a 15 year old version of this that I would love to try, but I have never seen it anywhere.