Highlights: 20 years of beer from Innis & Gunn – the XX
It was back in 2003 when Dougal Sharp launched Innis & Gunn ‘The Original’, which was a distinctive 6.6% alcohol beer aged in Bourbon casks. I remember really liking it at the time: it was quite unique. Now, to celebrate 20 years since the release of the Original, Dougal has a new Original, the XX. It’s a beer weighing in at 7.7% alcohol and it’s in casks that have previously had 20 year old Speyside Single Malt whisky in them. It’s available from www.innisandgunn.com priced at £6 per 33cl bottle.
Innis & Gunn The Original XX Cask Strength Release
7.7% alcohol
Matured in 20 year old Speyside casks. This is rich and textural with lovely toffee, vanilla and cream notes as well as some spicy, woody detail. There’s some freshness here, too, but the alcohol brings body and warmth. Notes of almond and liqourice in the background, and a long nutty finish with apple and citrus fruity notes. Complex and satisfying. 8.5/10
Innis & Gun The Original Scottish Golden Beer
6.6% alcohol
Single Malt Whisky cask matured. There’s a fresh herby edge here and then some bright citrus notes, but quickly we are into richer, bolder fruity characters. Nicely intense with some toffee and fudge with peach, spice and some honeyed sweetness. Full dynamic range expressed here, going from bolder, richner notes to nice spicy citrussy treble on the finish. 8/10
