Michel Couvreur The Unexpected No. 2 French Single Malt Whisky 70 cl 50%

The Unexpected is the name the whisky itself has chosen to describe what a French sherry cask can do to Scotch malt over 10 years.

Expert's description

Michel Couvreur The Unexpected No. 2 is a Single Malt Whisky matured in a sherry cask and bottled at 50 percent.

The whisky was distilled in 2011 and bottled in 2022 after 10 years of cask maturation, and like the rest of the house range it's matured further via Michel Couvreur's fresh filling method in the cellars of Burgundy. The high strength of 50 percent gives the whisky a power that sets it apart from several of the house's milder bottlings.

Michel Couvreur travelled to Scotland himself to find the casks he believed in, then let them mature further in his own Burgundy cellars - a process that still sets the house apart from almost everyone else in the market today.

Tasting notes

Nose

The nose is intense with sherry, dark chocolate and dried fruit, spiced with a hint of cinnamon.

Palate

The palate is powerful and warm, with sherry and caramel up front, supported by a dry, oaky undertone.

Finish

The finish is long and spicy, with lingering notes of raisin and a last peppery warmth.

Specifications

Name: The Unexpected No. 2
Distillery: Michel Couvreur
Region/Country: France
Type: Single Malt Whisky
Age: 10 years
ABV: 50 %
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Sherry cask
Non-chill filtered: Yes
Natural colour: Yes
Distilled: 2011
Bottled: 2022
Edition: The Unexpected No. 2

Flavour profile

Sherry-matured · Powerful · Spicy · Cask strength

Did you know?

The name 'The Unexpected' hints at how the whisky's intensity and strength often surprise even seasoned tasters familiar with the house's milder bottlings like The Unique.

Frequently asked questions about Michel Couvreur The Unexpected No. 2 Fransk Single Malt Whisky 70 cl 50%

How old is this whisky?

It was distilled in 2011 and bottled in 2022 after 10 years of cask maturation.

Why is the strength of 50 percent higher than many of the house's other bottlings?

The Unexpected No. 2 is designed as a powerful expression, showing a different, more intense side of Michel Couvreur's sherry style.

Is it worth it compared to other 10 year old sherry-matured whiskies?

The high strength combined with 10 years of sherry cask maturation gives a depth and power not found in the house's more restrained bottlings.

Is this whisky chill filtered?

No, it's neither chill filtered nor coloured.

How should The Unexpected No. 2 be served?

Pour it into a nosing glass and add a few drops of water, so the high strength doesn't overpower the sherry and spice notes the whisky offers.

Is this whisky suitable for an enthusiast who knows Michel Couvreur's milder bottlings?

Yes, it's a natural next step for an enthusiast wanting to experience a more powerful and intense side of the house.