SLYRS Single Malt Whisky “Classic”: The Bavarian Original of Distillation Art

There are spirits that usher in an entire pioneering era – SLYRS Single Malt Whisky “Classic” is the liquid monument to the German whisky boom. When Florian Stetter had the vision in 1999 to create a Bavarian single malt at Schliersee, modeled after Scottish whisky but with an alpine soul, he initially met with skepticism. Today, SLYRS (pronounced “Schliers”) is an international reference for continental European whisky.

The 0.35-liter bottle of the “Classic” is the ideal introduction to the world of SLYRS. This single malt is the essence of the Bavarian Alps: it combines the purity of mountain water with high-quality Bavarian barley and maturation in the unique high-altitude air of Upper Bavaria. At 43% ABV, it is strong enough to assert its character, yet remains as smooth as connoisseurs expect from a modern classic.

Sensory & Flavor Profile – Alpine Freshness Meets Barley Malt

Color:

In the glass, the SLYRS Classic shines in a bright, radiant golden yellow. The brilliance of the whisky indicates clean distillation and honest maturation. When swirled, it shows a beautiful texture with fine streaks on the rim of the glass.

Nose (Nosing):

The bouquet is characterized by an inviting, malty sweetness. The first wave reveals aromas of fresh hay, vanilla, and light caramel. Immediately afterward, a fruity component unfolds, reminiscent of ripe pears and yellow apples. A very subtle, spicy note of dry wood and a hint of alpine herbs give the nose a wonderful freshness and depth.

Mouthfeel:

On the palate, the SLYRS Classic presents itself with a soft yet present side. The 43% ABV acts as an ideal flavor carrier. The mouthfeel is oily and round, without any alcoholic harshness, which underlines the high quality of the distillate.

Taste (Palate):

The taste is a perfect reflection of the Bavarian landscape. A strong maltiness is in the foreground, accompanied by sweet notes reminiscent of honey and vanilla pudding. In the middle part, spicy nuances of white pepper and a slight nuttiness (almonds) develop. The fruitiness remains constantly present and ensures a harmonious balance between sweetness and woody spice.

Finish:

The finish is medium-long, very clean, and dry. A pleasant aftertaste of roasted barley and a gentle vanilla note remain on the palate, making you want another sip.

Raw Material & The Art of Bavarian Distillation

The SLYRS Classic is a product of its terroir. Every ingredient comes from the immediate surroundings or the region:

• Bavarian Barley: For SLYRS, only local barley is used, which is gently malted. This gives the whisky its characteristic, full grain note.

• The Mountain Water: The distillery uses the crystal-clear water from the Bannwald spring at Schliersee. Its purity and minerality are crucial for the softness of the distillate.

• The Yeast: Special yeast strains ensure the formation of fruity esters during fermentation.

Vinification & Craft – The Bavarian Pot Still Method

The Distillation:

SLYRS is double distilled in copper pot stills using the classic pot still method. The distillation process is particularly slow and gentle to preserve the fine aromas of the barley. The result is an extremely pure "New Make" that already shows impressive finesse before cask aging.

Maturation:

The SLYRS Classic matures for at least three to six years in new casks made of American white oak (Virgin Oak). In contrast to Scottish whiskies, which are often aged in used casks, the fresh wood gives SLYRS a more intense vanilla and caramel note as well as a spicy freshness.

The Climate:

The distillery is located at an altitude of approximately 800 meters. The large temperature differences between day and night, as well as the pure mountain air, accelerate the maturation process and ensure an intensive exchange between wood and whisky.

Reputation & Awards

SLYRS has paved the way for German whisky and is regularly awarded internationally.

• World Whiskies Awards: SLYRS regularly wins medals in the European Single Malt categories.

   

• Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible: Receives consistently high ratings for its purity and clear distillery character for years.

• Falstaff Spirits Trophy: Top ratings for the “Classic” edition as a flagship product of German distillation art.

The Perfect Serve – A Piece of Bavaria in a Glass

Neat Enjoyment:

The SLYRS Classic best unfolds its aromas undiluted.

• Glass: A nosing glass (tulip shape) to bring the malty and fruity notes to the nose.

• Temperature: We recommend room temperature (approx. 18–20 °C).

Food Pairing:

• Cheese: A medium-aged mountain cheese or a mild Emmentaler harmonize perfectly with the maltiness.

• Sweets: A piece of dark milk chocolate with nuts accentuates the vanilla notes.

• Savory: Surprisingly, it pairs well with a classic Bavarian Brotzeit (snack) with smoked ham.

In Mixology:

Although delightful neat, the SLYRS Classic is excellent for a Bavarian Old Fashioned with a splash of maple syrup instead of sugar.

Technical Details & Mandatory Information