The legendary Kik Bar in Bologna turned 50 years of activity in 2017 and owner Bruno Benassi, a great connoisseur and important whisky collector, had the good idea to celebrate with four commemorative bottlings, a Mortlach, a Caol Ila, the Girvan that we drink today and a Laphroaig (here the review) that also brings with it a commendable initiative, because it is possible to buy it only through a charitable donation of at least 300€ to the Bene Onlus (here the explanation). But let’s move to our grain whisky that, aged for a quarter of a century, on the label shows proudly the typical Bolognese colonnades and the San Luca church.
N: it’s expressive and open, with a note that beats them all: a lovely banana! We have both creamy ice cream, and ripe, fresh banana. Later, some cereal biscuits come, mixed with dried fruits (hazelnuts, Pecan nuts). We find a nice, gorgeous custard, honey, peaches and even some generous wooden whiffs.
P: the start is mouth coating and creamy, but also with a vaguely sour sensation (lemon, grape) that rebalances a dram which however plays its cards in the field of a big sweetness (vanilla, honey, again a lot of banana). The palate is completed by dried fruit and a lot of orange peel.
F: silky, banana cream and dried fruit.
Like many old grain whiskies we’ve tasted, this Girvan is not a monster of complexity, but it stands very pleasant and with its peculiar balance. In short, we would define it as sweet and generous, just like the man who gave it birth. Thanks Bruno! Rate is 86/100.
Recommended soundtrack: Francesco Guccini – Canzone delle osterie di fuori porta.
