Origin: Highlands (Scotland)
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Gradation: 54.7%ABV
Ageing cask: Ex-Bourbon first fill
Chillfiltered: No
Additional coloring: No
Owner: Dram Mor Group
Average price: € 80.00
Official website: drammorgroup.com
Vote: 84/100
We continue the degutation of this Scottish bottler’s spring releases with a single cask from a distillery at its debut on the blog.
Blair Athol was founded as Adlour in 1798 by John Steward and Robert Robertson, but closed down after a short time and reopened its doors in 1825 under its current name.
Like many distilleries, there were several changes of ownership over the years, until it closed in 1932. The new owners, Arthur Bell and Sons, rebuilt and reopened the distillery in 1949, subjecting it to further expansion in the 1970s and using the distillate for the famous Bell blended.
Today part of the Diageo portfolio, it continues its destiny as a component of the blends of the multinational giant with rare bottlings of its own.
Luckily there are the independent bottlers who offer us single casks like this one, ex-Bourbon first fill and presented in 265 cask strength bottles.
Tasting notes
The nose is initially herbaceous and cerealous, so much so that it appears younger than its ten years, but soon the aromas become softer and rounder, with fruit (melon, unripe banana, pear), vanilla, honey, butter and a touch of caramel. Slight mineral and lemon notes in the background.
The palate is warm and spicy, a tangy lemon tart accompanied by plenty of honey, pear, peach, cereal and anise. Herbaceous veins and liquorice root. Very dry, it expresses a slight saltiness in its length.
Fairly long finish of fruit, citrus, vanilla, tea leaves.
A nice balance of aromas and flavours, you perceive the quality of the distillate which doesn’t let itself be overwhelmed by the cask and creates a pleasant whole even if not yet fully expressive.
A fine discovery.