Bain's Cape Mountain Single Grain South Africa Whiskey
Price History
Overview
Bain's Cape Mountain Single Grain Whisky is a pioneering South African single grain spirit distilled from unmalted maize, crafted to showcase the region's unique climate and grain in a light, approachable style. It emerges from James Sedgwick Distillery's innovative approach to accelerated maturation, offering a fresh alternative to traditional Scotch or bourbon profiles.
Specs at a glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Style | Single Grain Whisky |
| ABV | 43% |
| Mashbill | 100% South African maize (corn), unmalted |
| Release Info | Produced at James Sedgwick Distillery in Wellington; first matured ~3 years in first-fill ex-bourbon casks, then vatted and finished 18-30 months in new first-fill ex-bourbon casks under high ambient temperatures |
| Age | No age statement |
Good to know
James Sedgwick Distillery, established over a century ago and named for Captain James Sedgwick who settled in Cape Town, draws on its heritage to produce this whisky entirely from local maize sourced from a single distillery. The extreme South African heat—often exceeding 40°C—speeds maturation with an annual angel's share loss of around 5%, resulting in a spirit that expert reviews describe as refreshingly simple yet somewhat thin-bodied.
Tasting notes
- Nose: Simple, pleasant aromas evoking a light bourbon profile with subtle grain sweetness and faint vanilla from ex-bourbon cask influence.
- Palate: Balanced flavors of soft corn sweetness and mild oak, delivering an easy-going lightness without bold intensity or complexity.
- Finish: Clean and short, fading gently with lingering grain notes but lacking depth for extended savoring.
Notable details
- Production: Distilled at James Sedgwick Distillery; non-chill filtered, matured in ex-bourbon casks under accelerated conditions due to high temperatures.
- Lineage: From a distillery over 100 years old, honoring Captain James Sedgwick's legacy in South African spirits production.
- Comparison: Mirrors a light bourbon in simplicity but stands apart as Africa's entry into single grain whisky.
"This is a light and easy-going whisky suitable for casual summer drinking but falls short for those seeking more complexity or heft." – The Whiskey Wash
Closing
A straightforward, climate-driven sipper ideal for highballs on warm days, embodying South Africa's bold foray into world whisky.
Sources
[1] Thewhiskeywash – "Bain's Cape Mountain Single Grain Whisky Review: Tasting Notes & Analysis"
[2] Thewhiskeywash – "Bain's Cape Mountain Single Grain Whisky Review: Tasting Notes & Analysis"