Sibona Italian peated whisky Vol.44% Cl.70

The Sibona distillery: from grappas aged in various barrels to peated whisky.

The Sibona distillery is based in Piedmont, a region deeply rooted in wine and grape spirits. For decades, the brand was associated almost exclusively with quality grappas, often aged in ex-wine or ex-liqueur barrels, effectively pioneering a "cask-driven" approach that we now also find in its whiskies.

Sibona's entry into the world of whisky was a natural one: the reasons are its expertise in distilling from select raw materials, its extensive experience in using fine barrels such as former wine barrels, fortified casks, etc.

The ideal climate for dynamic, yet not extreme, aging, with temperature variations that impart character to the distillate.

From this foundation, the Sibona range of Italian whiskies was born, of which the "Peated" version represents the most assertive and smoky facet.

What is Sibona Italian Peated Whisky?

Sibona Italian Peated Whisky is an Italian single malt made from peated malted barley.

Peat, widely used in Scotland, is used to dry the barley malt, giving the distillate its typical smoky, ember-like, smokey, and sometimes medicinal or iodine-like aromas.

Raw material: Peated malted barley, with a generally medium level of peat, designed to be expressive but not extreme.

Distillation: Single malt style, with attention to the purity of the still and the balance between malt and smoky notes.

Maturation: In select casks, often ex-wine or ex-spirits, in keeping with the Sibona tradition of showcasing wood and its aromas.

The result is a whisky that aims to be accessible, elegant, and recognizably Italian, while still speaking the international "language" of peat.

The aromatic profile of Sibona Peated Whisky is distinctive; the Italian, not Scottish, peat is an innovative choice!

While inspired by Scottish peated whiskies, Sibona Italian Peated Whisky does not aim to copy them, but to reinterpret peat with a Piedmontese twist.

The distinctive feature of Sibona Italian Peated Whisky is the dialogue between international peated tradition and Piedmontese winemaking culture (intelligent use of casks, pursuit of harmony).

Peat lends personality and identity, appealing to those who love smoky whiskies.

Wood adds elegance, vinous or spicy notes, tying the product to Sibona's history and the region.

The style remains more rounded and gastronomic than many extreme Scottish peated whiskies, making it versatile even at the table.

Sibona's role in the Italian whisky scene is innovative and driving.

With products like Italian Peated, Sibona helps demonstrate that Italy is not just grappa and bitters, but also characterful single malts. Furthermore, it can offer original interpretations of peat, not mere Scottish "clones."

With its Italian peated whisky, Sibona strengthens the image of Piedmont as a region of great spirits, as well as great wines.

Their work with barrels and aging, already consolidated in the world of grappa, is an added value in defining a recognizable Italian style, even when working with an aromatic signature—peat—typically associated with other countries.

Sibona Italian Peated Whisky represents an important piece in the new Italian whisky map: a spirit that combines the smoky depth of peat with an elegant, gastronomic approach, inspired by Piedmontese winemaking culture.

It's an interesting bottle:

for those who love peated whiskies but want to discover how peat "sounds" in Italy,

for those coming from the world of wine and grappa and seeking a bridge to single malt,

for those seeking a characterful but not extreme product, capable of pairing well with food.

Tasting Notes:

Apple: Light amber, golden highlights.

Aroma: Delicate yet present smoke, more reminiscent of embers and a fireplace than industrial port, accompanied by notes of sweet malt, biscuit, and pale honey. Fruity accents (apple, pear, sometimes dried fruit) from the type of cask.

Light vanilla and spicy nuances (vanilla, white pepper).

Palate: At first sip, Sibona Italian peated whisky has a smooth attack, with a sweetness of cereal and light caramel. The smoke gradually opens up, integrated, and more enveloping than aggressive.

Finish: Medium-long finish with a trail of smoke, delicate spices, and hints of sweet malt.

An overall sensation of balance rather than the "smoky punch" typical of some Scottish islands.

Italianness in a glass!