I have been looking forward to getting my hands on Whisky Review: The Gladstone Axe The Black Axe. Bottled at 43% ABV, no age statement given, 100% malted barle and priced at $30, it promises genuine character.
Nose
The liquid is clear and a rich, dark amber color. The malt show up first on the nose, followed by sweet caramel and vanilla. The smoke is subtle and shows up towards the end. Taste is similar to the nose. The vanilla takes a back seat to the caramel, though. With the gentle hint of smoke, the caramel takes on an almost coffee-like quality that reminded me of a caramel latte. Apple, apricot, and spice notes play in the background. The Black Axe has an oily mouth feel, which helps it linger on the tongue for a medium-length earthy, peppery finish.
Palate
As someone who enjoys a peaty, smoky Islay, I was a bit underwhelmed by the lack of smoke especially since that note is heavily featured in marketing material. The flavors themselves are good, but lack the complexity to make it a great sipping whiskey. I appreciate that it is easy drinking, and a good choice to introduce someone to smoke in whisky who hasnt tried it before. I think where The Gladstone Axe The Black Axe could shine is as a mixer. The smoke could add an element of intrigue in cocktails (such as those featured on their website) that traditionally use a non-peated whiskey like bourbon.
Finish
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
The Bottom Line
Whisky Review: The Gladstone Axe The Black Axe is a perfectly respectable whiskey that does what it sets out to do. At $30, the value is reasonable — it will not blow your mind, but it will not disappoint you either. A reliable choice.
