DRAM1 Awards Panel Edition
The Thy Caramel Malt is a full-bodied, sherry-forward malt that combines intense sweetness with earthy, spicy, and slightly medicinal notes. Based on over 100 tasting entries, this review consolidates its aroma, palate, finish, and overall impression.
About Thy
Thy Distillery is located on the rugged coast of northern Jutland, where windswept fields and cold North Sea air shape its character. The distillery is known for its dedication to local ingredients, drawing on organic grains grown in the surrounding region. With a focus on craftsmanship and sustainability, Thy produces spirits that reflect the land’s natural purity. Each batch is carefully distilled to highlight subtle flavors, creating whiskies and other spirits with distinctive depth. Visitors can explore the facilities, learn about traditional production methods, and experience the unique taste of a distillery rooted deeply in Denmark’s coastal heritage and tradition.
Stats
- Distillery: Thy
- Region: Denmark
- Whisky Type: Single Malt
- ABV: 54,5% (109 Proof)
Tasting Notes Thy Caramel Malt
Nose
The Thy Caramel Malt opens with a rich, sherry-forward aroma, layered and inviting:
- Sweet & dessert-like: caramel, vanilla, chocolate, coffee, light burnt cake, marmalade
- Fruity & nutty notes: hazelnut, red fruits, stewed berries
- Earthy & herbal tones: tobacco, leather, licorice, subtle medicinal hints, jodium
- Unique & slightly odd touches: some panelists noted roasted rubber, marmite, or farmy/straw notes, giving it character and intrigue
Overall, the nose is bold, intense, and multilayered, combining the sweetness of a dessert with earthy and herbal complexity.
Palate
On tasting, the Thy Caramel Malt is full-bodied, rich, and robust:
- Sweetness: milk chocolate, caramel, fudge, toffee, vanilla custard
- Fruit & spice: dried fruits, stewed cherries, marzipan, pepper, ginger, cinnamon
- Earth & oak: roasted wood, cocoa nibs, slight smokiness, subtle sherry tannins
- Additional complexity: hints of coffee, dark chocolate liqueur, and mild medicinal or maritime tones
Despite its richness, some tasters found the palate slightly sharp, with higher alcohol presence giving a warming bite. Others praised the balance of sherry sweetness with spicy, earthy layers, which keeps the tasting experience engaging.
Finish
The finish is medium to long, with layered sweetness and spice:
- Lingering sweetness: chocolate, caramel, toffee
- Spicy edge: black pepper, white pepper, light ginger, anise
- Earthy/herbal aftertaste: tobacco, licorice, subtle jodium
- Alcohol warmth: present but not overpowering
Some panelists noted slightly wry or bitter undertones in the finish, but most agreed that the sweet sherry and chocolate notes carry through nicely, leaving a memorable impression.
Food Pairing
Thy Caramel Malt pairs beautifully with:
- Desserts: chocolate torte, toffee pudding, tiramisu, or marzipan treats
- Nuts & dried fruit: roasted hazelnuts, almond biscotti, dried figs
- Savory dishes: lightly spiced meats, roasted root vegetables
- Cheese: blue cheese or aged cheddar, which complement its sweet-spicy layers
The whisky’s full-bodied sherry profile makes it ideal as an after-dinner dram.
Verdict
Strengths
- Full-bodied and sherry-rich: intense sweetness with complex layers
- Multi-layered palate: chocolate, caramel, dried fruit, spice, and subtle earthy tones
- Long, warming finish: sweetness and spice linger pleasantly
- Unique character: some odd or farmy notes add intrigue
- Versatile enjoyment: dessert pairing or slow sipping
Weaknesses
- Sharpness/alcohol presence: may be noticeable to those unused to high ABV
- Slight bitterness or medicinal notes: could be off-putting to some
- Not overly subtle: bold style dominates, so it’s not a light sipper
Final Thoughts
The Thy Caramel Malt is a bold, indulgent sherry bomb with layers of sweet chocolate, caramel, dried fruits, and spices, complemented by earthy and herbal undertones. The DRAM1 panel found it rich, full-bodied, and complex, though some tasters noted minor sharp or medicinal edges.
It’s highly recommended for whisky lovers, those who enjoy dessert-style drams, or anyone seeking a Nordic malt with personality and punch. A few drops of water reveal additional chocolate and coffee notes, making it even more approachable. Overall, Thy Caramel Malt is a standout malt for those craving a sweet, sherried, and robust experience.
