Whisky tasting: The Heart Cut #18 and #19 Thomson Whiskies

Whisky from the heart…

Pocket Pours of The Heart Cut #18 and #19.

I’ve been a huge fan of The Heart Cut since its launch. The philosophy of inclusivity and emphasis on education chime with my own approach to whisky. Founded in 2023, the company has two outstanding advocates in its founders, drinks industry pros Georgie Bell and Fabrizio Leoni. It’s clear how much this company and its mission mean to them.

I’ve purchased from The Heart Cut before (a stunning Stauning), but these Thomson Whisky samples were gifted. Located near Auckland, on New Zealand’s North Island, the distillery uses local peat and manuka wood to smoke its malt, bringing a real sense of place to its spirits.

These two single casks (#18 and #19 in The Heart Cut’s range) were aged in an ex-bourbon barrel and a New Zealand Pinot Noir cask respectively.

#18 demonstrates the character of that manuka-wood smoke, earthy and resinous, alongside tropical notes of mango, papaya and lime, ginger cake, honey, and an underpinning briny note. In #19, the spirit character is enriched by the red wine cask: blueberries, raspberries, cherries and figs with dark chocolate, hazelnuts, fruity tobacco smoke and gently metholic spice.

Whisky fans overlook independent bottlers at their peril. With skilled hands at the tiller, they can put out truly exceptional whiskies (and can be a more cost-effective way to get your hands on typically pricier brands). The past decade has seen a surge in the number of indies on the market. With that has come greater diversity not just of product but of ethos — do your research to find a bottler whose stance on whisky reflects your own, and you’re sure to find some rewarding spirits.