• WHY: Mission is clearly a huge supporter of Armenia and Armenian products as a whole, but our enthusiasm for the new Hye-Land 12 year old Armenian single malt is about more than just Armenian pride. It’s just a flat out delicious whiskey for a HOT price, unique in its soft and creamy profile with a sweet, mealy, grainy profile that mends beautifully with the oak and vanilla spices on the finish.

• HOW: While most single malt whiskies are 100% malted barley, the Hye-Land whiskey is made from 100% malted wheat, then aged in Caucasus Mountain oak before being finished in Armenian brandy barrels.

• WHAT: Hye-Land is made at Eraskh Winery and Distillery in the Ararat Valley of Armenia. Known more for its wines, brandies, and vodkas, the facility was established in 1967 roughly 80 miles outside the capital city of Yeraskh in the village of Aralez. The Ararat valley is one of the most ancient agricultural regions on Earth, dating back to Noah and the time of the flood, and its flowing wheat fields, sprawling vineyards, and orchards of fruit trees offer an endless bounty of quality produce for Eraskh’s distillation.

From the Whisky Advocate: The nose offers seasoned oak, citrus, ginger, and allspice. The palate brings sweet notes of melon, coconut shavings, tobacco, Christmas cake, ginger, and clove, all lightly accented by black pepper. The finish is viscous and has balanced sweetness.