Origin: Speyside (Scotland)
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Strength: 56.1%ABV
Ageing casks: Ex-Sherry Oloroso, PX and new
Chillfiltered: No
Added coloring: No
Owner: The GlenAllachie Distillers Co Limited
Average price: € 80.00
Official website: theglenallachie.com
The 10yo Cask Strength, differing from batch to batch in the mix of casks used, is one of the places where the absolute solidity of GlenAllachie distillate and the experimental vocation in Billy Walker’s wood selection are more clearly evident.
The fourth release, which I am tasting today, dates back to 2021 and blends classic ex-PX and ex-oloroso casks with a small amount of new casks, for a total of 2,600 bottles available at 56.1%ABV and now impossible to find (hence the indicative price).
The fact that it won the World Whisky Award that year as Best Single Malt raises the already considerable expectations even higher.
Tasting Notes
The color is dark amber.
The attack on the nose is marked by notes of orange peel and chestnut honey. The latter remains like a continuous bass that sets the rhythm in the alternation of sensations throughout the tasting. An impression of damp earth marries sweeter memories of milk chocolate and malaga, with a hint of dates, while a sudden jolt of blackberries and blueberries is held back by a scent of freshly cut wood, likely the result of the new casks.
On the palate, the consistency is total and virtuous, with the contribution of an important strength that never disturbs. An ensemble of chestnut honey, orange peel, dates, freshly cut wood, with a note of almond and a timid sprinkle of pepper, envelops the mouth and opens the doors to a decidedly long finish in which the protagonist is confirmed to be the chestnut honey, hand in hand with the dates and raisins, with a razor strike of spices to dry the palate and push for another sip.
Review: My opinion, which is by no means authoritative unlike that of the judges of the World Whisky Awards, is consistent in overall substance. Perfectly balanced sensations and a rare taste pleasantness, in line with a series that has become a guarantee.
Vote: 89/100