Lark Chinotto Cask 50cl
ABV: 49% | Origin: Tasmania, Australia

Lark Chinotto Cask 50cl is a unique and innovative Australian whisky that combines the richness of traditional whisky with the vibrant flavors of Chinotto, a bitter citrus fruit. Aged in specially selected Chinotto casks, this expression offers a distinct profile with notes of citrus zest, spice, and subtle herbal undertones, balanced by the warmth and smoothness of the whisky. The result is a complex and refreshing dram with a hint of bitterness that makes it stand out among other whiskies. Perfect for those seeking an adventurous, yet refined drinking experience.

Tasting Profile

• Nose: Soft sweet smoke, lemon zest, malted milkshakes, and candied orange peel
• Palate: Charred citrus, gingerbread, sweet Tasmanian peat, chocolate, and bitter orange oil
• Finish: Long and bittersweet with smoky cola, toffee, and a touch of oak spice

Production Details

• Distillation method: Double distilled in copper pot stills
• Cask type(s):
  • Finished in casks seasoned with handcrafted Chinotto (a Tasmanian-made, Italian-style citrus beverage)
• Special processes:
  • Lightly peated Tasmanian barley (around 15-20 PPM)
  • Casks seasoned with a bespoke Chinotto blend, infusing bitter orange and cola notes
  • Non-chill filtered to preserve flavor intensity
  • Bottled at 49% ABV for a vibrant, balanced profile

Perfect For

• Whisky adventurers seeking innovative, experimental flavors
• Those who enjoy a blend of peat and citrus in their malts
• Collectors of limited-edition Australian whiskies
• Pairing with festive or smoky dishes for a bold contrast
• Fans of Italian-inspired spirits with a Tasmanian twist

Expert Notes

• Introduced as a groundbreaking release, it won a 95-point score at the International Wine and Spirits Competition
• Combines Lark’s signature highland peat with the bittersweet zest of Chinotto, a 1950s Italian soda
• Crafted under Head Distiller Chris Thomson, showcasing Tasmania’s pioneering whisky spirit
• A testament to Lark’s reputation for pushing boundaries in the global whisky scene
• Best enjoyed neat or over ice to highlight its unique profile

Customer Reviews

• “Smoky and citrusy—a wild ride that’s totally unique!” – Tim H. ★★★★★
• “The orange and peat combo is genius; love sipping this slow.” – Mia L. ★★★★☆
• “Bold and different—great for something new!” – Sam K. ★★★★☆

Interesting Facts

• Lark Distillery, founded by Bill Lark in 1992, is considered the birthplace of modern Australian whisky
• Chinotto is made from myrtle-leaved oranges, recreated by Lark in Tasmania’s Coal Valley
• The first Chinotto Cask release (2021) set the stage for subsequent editions like Chinotto Cask II
• Tasmania’s cool climate and peat bogs mirror Scotland’s, ideal for whisky-making
• This release reflects Lark’s ethos of blending tradition with daring innovation

Serving Suggestions

• Sip neat or over a single ice cube to savor its complexity
• Pair with smoked salmon, dark chocolate, or gingerbread for a festive match
• Try in a smoky highball with soda and a lemon twist
• Serve in a Glencairn glass to concentrate the citrus-smoke aromas
• Enjoy as a winter warmer or a summer refresher with friends

Distillery

• Lark Distillery, established in 1992 in Tasmania, Australia, was the first licensed distillery there in 153 years
• Founded by Bill Lark, it sparked the Australian whisky renaissance with its artisanal approach
• Located in the Coal River Valley, it uses local barley, peat, and pure water for its malts
• The Chinotto Cask reflects Lark’s experimental edge, seasoning casks with a Tasmanian-made Italian soda
• Known globally, it’s won accolades like Best Blended Malt at the World Whiskies Awards