Spirit of Hven Hvenus Svensk Rye Whisky 45,6%

Forty-two casks, four grain recipes, one whisky. Hvenus is Spirit of Hven's take on a rye whisky that insists on complexity over simplicity, and the name is a small, double-edged love letter to both the goddess and the island itself.

The Expert's Description

Spirit of Hven Hvenus is a Swedish Rye Whisky matured in American oak casks and bottled at 45.6%.

Hvenus is assembled from no fewer than 42 American oak casks, all at least six years old, each contributing its own share to the final grain recipe. The result after blending is 78.6% rye, 11.9% wheat, 4.8% corn and 4.8% barley, a composition that gives the whisky unusual breadth for a rye-based expression.

Neither chill filtration, added colour nor sugar is used in production, so the whisky stands entirely on its own, with only grain, cask and time as collaborators.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Intense vanilla meets freshly cut grass and a touch of menthol, an unusual combination for a rye whisky.

Palate

Smooth and soft on the tongue, with vanilla developing into spiced toffee notes, malt and a hint of dark chocolate.

Finish

Fruity and soft with vanilla and lavender notes that settle calmly.

Specifications

Name: Spirit of Hven Hvenus Swedish Rye Whisky
Distillery: Spirit of Hven
Region/Country: Hven, Sweden
Type: Swedish Rye Whisky
ABV: 45.6%
Size: 50 CL
Cask type: 42 American oak casks, minimum 6 years old

Flavour Profile

Grain-forward · Spiced · Soft · Vanilla-led · Fruity

Did You Know?

The name Hvenus is a double nod to both the goddess of love and the island of Hven itself. The whisky is assembled from 42 different casks, each contributing its own share to the final grain blend.

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Frequently asked questions about Spirit of Hven Hvenus Swedish Rye Whisky

How does Spirit of Hven Hvenus taste?

It tastes smooth and soft with vanilla, spiced toffee notes and a hint of dark chocolate, closing on a fruity, lavender-like finish. The nose offers an unusual combination of vanilla and freshly cut grass.

What makes Hvenus different from other rye whiskies?

It is assembled from as many as 42 casks, all at least six years old, each contributing its own share to the final grain recipe. That gives a breadth and complexity not often found in rye whisky.

Is Hvenus coloured or sweetened?

No, neither chill filtration, colouring nor sugar is used in production. The whisky stands entirely on its own with only grain, cask and time as collaborators.

How should I serve Hvenus?

Best in a nosing glass at room temperature, ideally with a few drops of water to open up the spiced toffee notes.

Why is the whisky called Hvenus?

The name is a small double nod to both the goddess of love, Venus, and the island of Hven, where the distillery is located.

Is Hvenus a good introduction to rye whisky?

Yes, the soft, vanilla-led style makes it easy to approach, while the complexity from the 42 casks gives plenty to discover.