Pokeno 'Solera La Ina Hogshead' DramFest 2025

Score: 68

Pōkeno’s Solera La Ina Hogshead release for DramFest 2025 may have come fourth in the tasting, but it left a distinct impression, elegant, layered, and quietly confident. The nose offered a soft interplay of dried apricot, toasted almond, and a faint sherry warmth, with the La Ina solera cask lending a subtle oxidative depth. There was a hint of orange marmalade and dusty spice, like cinnamon bark left in the sun. On the palate, it opened with silky texture and restrained sweetness, think golden syrup and vanilla pod—before shifting into richer notes of walnut, old leather, and a touch of rancio. The finish was medium-long, tapering off with dried fruit and a whisper of oak tannin. While it didn’t have the brute force of the Ardmore or the age prestige of its rivals, it stood out for its composure and finesse. The solera influence gave it a sense of quiet maturity, and its balance made it a contemplative pour, one that rewards slow sipping and reflection. In a lineup full of bold statements, this was the whisky that spoke in measured tones and still held the room. *CLUB TASTING NOTES* "Has a fantastic nose, and the body of a hand model." "Beautiful aroma, noticeable characteristics from solera cask. Taste turns a bit savory, medium long finish with spices kicking in." "Lovely nose. Dark and woody" "Amazing Aroma"