First Impressions
Bols Barrel Aged Genever takes the Original and ages it for at least eighteen months in Limousin oak. The result bridges genever and whisky more fully than the unaged expression — rich, creamy, and with an Irish whiskey sensibility that rewards slow sipping or cocktail mixing.
Tasting
The nose shows spiced bread with cardamom, angelica and anise, malty with citrus and oak. On the palate, rich honey with caramel and vanilla — creamy and sweet with orange and almond, medium-heavy body. The finish is semi-long, sweet and smokey with mellow complexity.
The Bottom Line
Bols Barrel Aged earns an 8 for the ultimate expression of Amsterdam genever tradition. The eighteen months in Limousin oak creates a spirit that will convert whisky lovers, and the creamy vanilla-orange character is sublime. Essential for any serious spirits bar and brilliant in an Old Fashioned.
