In preparation for my travels to Aotearoa (New Zealand), my wife suggested that we try out the sole New Zealand whisky sample that I had on hand. This wee dram of the Pōkeno Origin came from the “Whisky Tour of the World” tasting kit I bought at Costco last Christmas. Pōkeno distillery sits on the North Island and I was bound for the frosty South Island, so sadly no chance to actually visit the distillery.  I poured this again upon my return— and did buy a Pōkeno Winter edition (featuring Manuka smoked barley and some chocolate malt) on my way out of the country.

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Whisky: Pōkeno Origin

Country/Region: New Zealand

ABV: 43%

Cask: First Fill Bourbon

Age: N/A

Notes: The aroma was fresh and airy with heather and green apple candies accented by a gentle kiss of pepper, cinnamon, and grassy sugars. More dried grass and herbal tea lingered with wood shavings and white oak. Light-bodied, the flavor profile was gentle and inoffensive with candied fruits and green apple hard candies— grapes, melon slices, bananas, and apples all coated with sugar: a tanghulu stick ready to reinvigorate low energy levels. More wood and almond flour lingered in the background with a kiss of pepper and more dried grass— a field of dried grass to enjoy the sugary treat. The finish was medium-length with mellow fruity and grassy sugars alongside a touch of artificial fruit and vanilla.

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Score: 5 (75)

Mental Image: Tanghulu Pick-me-up

Conclusion: Pleasant and pleasing, this had the vibe of an inoffensive mid-tier hotel lobby; meant to communicate a certain level of class and sophistication mixed with comfort and modern style: it is not five star or boutique, but it is comfortable and a welcome place of respite. That might sounds like I did not like this, but after being on the road for a few weeks, I can appreciate a homely hotel lobby and an opportunity to rest my weary feet. Overall, a whisky for crowd pleasing— perhaps lacking the intensity or eccentricities that an enthusiast-leaning group might look for, but surely a sign post to keep an eye out for whiskies from Pōkeno.