Virginia Distillery Co. Courage & Conviction Double Cask Reserve, produced by Co at 48%ABV) — at $89.99, the question is whether it delivers on its promise. I sat down with a pour to find out.
Nose
Milk chocolate quickly appears following the nose. Spicy black pepper enters with dark wood notes of toasted oak and campfire. The finish is coffee beans and lightly medicinal sea spray.
Palate
This expression should make Virginia Distillery Co. proud. A very classic single malt whiskey, it brings the warm caramel of ex-bourbon barrels and marries them perfectly with slightly creamier (and fruiter) cuvee casks. The blend is well-balanced, creating something that is deeply reminiscent of Single Malt Scotch whisky, but somehow distinguishes itself as more robust and burly. I’m a fan.
Finish
Malt and popcorn spryly leap from the glass, with hay and milk chocolate lingering after. Slight note of dried figs pop out from time to time. Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
The Bottom Line
Virginia Distillery Co. Courage & Conviction Double Cask Reserve delivers the goods. It is well-made, genuinely enjoyable, and at $89.99 represents solid value for what you are getting. I would happily buy this again.
