Unlike in the movies, there is no such thing as an “overnight success” narrative in the real world. Undoubtedly, acquiring desirable qualities necessitates a certain amount of time and perseverance. Whisky follows the same rule of thumb as any other alcoholic beverage. In the quest for flawless amber, there are no quick cuts. The clever folks at The Gospel are well aware of this fact.
Melbourne’s one-of-a-kind distillery has just introduced its newest creation, drawing inspiration from Australia’s wide variety of drinking traditions. Our years of experience in brewing have culminated in this latest batch of Gospel Stout Cask, and we couldn’t be more excited to spread the word about it.
This mint whisky is a hybrid, completed in an ex-rye barrel provided by neighboring Melbourne distillery Wolf of the Willows. Even though the track portion of spring carnival is finished, the party is only getting started, and what better way to celebrate than with the newest (and dare we say best) bottle from The Gospel?
Stout Cask is rye whisky that is four years old and has been aged with care before being completed in a barrel with a history. This second barrel was originally a brand-new American oak used to mature a vintage of The Gospel rye. In 2020, as part of their barrel exchange program, it was given to Wolf of the Willows, which was used to age their Rye Whiskey Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout Persistence for six months before the first of three yearly releases. It was brought back to its site of origin for its last resting place. And now, at long last, it’s time to raise a glass and toast.
Our spies on the ground tell us the final product is a whisky with a thick and creamy texture reminiscent of dried plum, rhubarb, date, dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, dulce de leche, vanilla, cardamom, walnut, orange flower, and cedar.
Stout Cask, whether served neat or on the rocks, is sure to be a popular beverage this holiday season. “Silly Season,” as we whisky drinkers like to call it. The Gospel’s Stout Cast, a limited edition release, is currently on sale at their web shop, and for $135, it makes for a great Christmas present that can be purchased in advance.