WMD Single Malt Bourbon ¼ Cask, The Distillery
West Midlands Distillery is an independent, family-run distillery based in the heart of Birmingham. Since opening in 2017, they’ve been known for making small-batch spirits with real care and character. What started with gin, rum, and vodka gradually expanded into whisky, with the first casks laid down in 2021. Their approach is hands-on and community-focused – using locally sourced ingredients, a touch of creativity, and plenty of patience. Their four pot stills (all named after family members) are at the heart of their single malt whisky programme, and their releases are among the first ever from the Birmingham region, marking a new chapter in England’s whisky story.
WMD Single Malt Bourbon ¼ Cask, Production Method
The Single Malt Bourbon ¼ Cask starts with Plumage Archer barley, malted using traditional floor malting methods. After a slow, fruit-forward fermentation, the wash is distilled twice in small copper pot stills. The whisky is then matured in first-fill ex-bourbon casks that have been re-coopered into quarter casks – meaning they’re smaller and provide greater interaction between the spirit and wood. This shorter, more intense maturation period brings out bold flavours of vanilla, oak, and spice. Everything is done on a small scale, with single barrel releases that let the individuality of each cask shine through.
WMD Single Malt Bourbon ¼ Cask, Tasting Notes
On the nose, expect inviting notes of sweet vanilla, toasted oak, and buttery toffee. The palate is smooth and rich, balancing creamy malt sweetness with layers of honey, caramel, and a little citrus zest. Thanks to the quarter cask, there’s a punch of oaky spice, followed by a long, warming finish with hints of fudge and dried fruit.
Did you know?
Quarter casks were traditionally used for transporting whisky by packhorse through the Highlands, thanks to their smaller, more portable size. Today, they’re perfect for faster maturation and richer flavours – making this a nod to old-school whisky craft with a modern West Midlands twist.
Suggested Pairing: this whisky pairs beautifully with creamy blue cheese or dark chocolate, where its vanilla and oak sweetness complement the rich, bold flavours. For something different, try it in a simple Old Fashioned with a dash of smoked sea salt – it brings out the toasty oak and spice in a whole new way.
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