Origin: Speyside (Scotland)
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Strength: 47.5%ABV
Ageing casks: Ex-Sherry PX butt
Chillfiltered: No
Added colouring: No
Owner: Morrison Distillers
Average price: € 70.00
Official website: www.carnmorwhisky.co.uk
The regularity with which I drink the IB Càrn Mòr whiskies – and try to share some modest impressions about them – speaks volumes about my passion for these offerings from Morrison Distillers. And in particular for the Strictly Limited series, which represents, in terms of value for money, a true gift for all enthusiasts, especially in times of often unwarranted price increases. The absolute drinkability and the educational vocation, in the best sense of the term, complete the experience.
Today I am tasting a Craigellachie from ex-PX casks, distilled in 2010 and bottled 12 years later in 1,542 bottles, still available on the market.
Tasting Notes
The color is a bronze that already tells, on the chromatic plane, the influence of the woods.
The nose is sticky. That might not sound inviting at first, but if you’ve ever had sherry Pedro Xìmenez, you perhaps understand the sensation. Raisins, chestnut honey, caramel, dried figs, dates, and chocolate and rhum cake fiercely vie for olfactory prominence. Almond, dark chocolate, and a floral note of jasmine linger in the background. Ever-present throughout the experience is a hint of boiled meat, which is likely the trademark of Craigellachie, reluctant to be overshadowed.
In the mouth, the aromatic blend is more or less the same (chestnut honey, raisins, dried figs, caramel), with the addition of a striking orange peel, dehydrated apricot, and toffee. A dash of white pepper adds further polish to the ensemble, which is now sharper. The 47.5% alcohol content appears, as usual for this series, perfect.
The finish of medium persistence marries an umami note with chestnut honey, the distillation, and the barrel, in a perfect marriage.
Review: The ideal union, precisely, between a distilled spirit of great personality, albeit somewhat underrated like that of Craigellachie, and active casks capable of leaving a strong imprint. The result is always convincing, and the satisfying drink leaves a delightful memory of itself. In short, the love story with Càrn Mòr is proceeding full sail!
Vote: 87/100