Taste is supposed to be subjective, right? A matter of personal preference, immune to universal judgment – or so we critics like to believe. Well apparently, Guinness World Records didn’t get the memo. Better known for timing the fastest mile or measuring the world’s longest fingernails, they’ve now turned their exacting standards to whisky, declaring Ascension from Johnson Reserve the most flavorful on the planet. With the official title of Greatest Variety of Flavours in a Whisky under its belt, this single malt may have just put the rest of us critics on notice.
Crafted with a dedication bordering on obsessive, this single malt Scotch is the result of a groundbreaking maturation journey, as Ascension passes through an unprecedented 33 unique casks. Each cask – ranging from Madeira Barriques and Mezcal Barrels to Japanese Mizunara oak – has been hand-selected by Johnson Reserve to impart its own nuanced influence, contributing to Ascension’s complexity and balance.
Notably, this isn’t a blended whisky. Instead, the intricate flavor profile is built solely from the interactions between the whisky and its ever-rotating lineup of vessels. And since it’s limited to just 40 bottles worldwide, Ascension is as rare as it is complex.
[See also: Buffalo Trace Antique Collection 2024: Tasting Notes and Ratings]
Alexander Johnson, managing director at Johnson Reserve, described the process behind Ascension as “a meticulous orchestration of cask sequencing, where each layer of flavor emerges distinctly yet harmoniously.” The company’s Scotland facility serves as the heart of this labor-intensive operation, sourcing only premium barrels from across the globe to ensure optimal flavor transfer.
It took over a decade of experimentation and research to perfect Ascension’s maturation process. The whisky journeys from one cask to the next in a finely tuned order, allowing each flavor to shine without overpowering the profile.
Related
Cameron Jessiman, operations manager at Johnson Reserve, highlighted the painstaking attention to detail: “We sample hundreds of barrels to find the exact profile needed, understanding that some casks must precede others to create balance. The process required years of trial to master the art of cask sequencing.”
[See also: The Macallan and Cirque du Soleil Partner on New Whiskies]
The result? A whisky that offers an evolving sensory experience, with notes ranging from the earthy smokiness of Mezcal to the nutty, fruity undertones of Rivesaltes Barrique. Guinness World Records adjudicators were quick to recognize the achievement, praising Ascension’s unmatched depth and diversity of flavor.
Content from our partners
True to its record-breaking ambitions, Ascension arrives dressed to impress. The bottle’s cork is wrapped in a bespoke combination of cashmere cloth and linen-cotton fabric, inspired by the refined artistry often found in Japanese whisky presentation.
Tasting notes
Appearance: A rich amber hue with mahogany tones, hinting at the whisky’s depth from its 33-cask maturation journey.
Nose: Honeyed fig, toasted almond and warm brioche lead, evolving into notes of cedarwood, vanilla and a touch of smoky mezcal.
Palate: Incredibly smooth, with flavors that unfold seamlessly – caramelized pear and butterscotch, giving way to dry oak, dark cocoa, and the earthy touch of agave. Hints of black cherry and fig blend with delicate spices and a touch of sea salt.
Finish: A long, lingering finish with notes of sweet tobacco, toasted hazelnut, and soft spice from Mizunara oak.
With only 40 bottles available, a ballot will be held for the chance to purchase one of these exclusive bottles.
Price upon application. For more information please contact members@johnson-reserve.com
[See also: Glenfiddich Releases Ultra-rare Scotch With Aston Martin F1]
