“Our 2021 vintage of Ramjet is a mix of barrels from the always incredible Starward whisky. Some American oak, some French, however all ex-red wine before being filled with whisky. These barrels were freshly emptied before arriving at Boatrocker.”

Glassware: Snifter.

Appearance: As black as the ace of spades with a short brown head which peels off rather quickly. It forms a collar with scarce lacing as we go.

Aroma: We can honestly say that we’re salivating from this aroma. Big whiskey components, decadent chocolate and espresso, oats, vanilla and just an all-round chunky malty-ness. As she warms the barrels which housed red wine (before the whiskey) begin to show through with delicate Port-like sweetness, red berries and earthy tannins. It only keeps getting thicker and richer as it sits too. Ooopht!

Flavour: The progression is next level. It’s actually hard to say whether the whiskey or the wine is more dominant upfront but either way it tastes amazing. What follows is a copious amount of heavily roasted malt, espresso, dark chocolate and molasses which then takes on a bit of the whiskey again. It then shifts into a roasty/toasty, nutty and warming finish which goes for days.

Mouthfeel: Pretty thick, oily and pronounced. Carbonation is low and the body is medium-full. 11.4% ABV is rather discernible…as one could expect.

Overall: Another respectable addition to this series. Although no one will ever change our minds that the ’15 and ’16 vintages were the best and will probably never be beaten. Alas, take nothing away from this fiery beast…it was magnificent.