Admittedly, it has been sometime since we last posted some tasting notes on a drop of liquid gold from the Aberlour distillery. Aberlour whisky was born in the Speyside village of Aberlour, made with local spring water from the Ben Rinnes and Barley, which is now locally sourced from field near by. This 14-year-old expression has been matured in two different casks: American oak and Spanish sherry oak, imparting some delightful notes over time. After 14 years, the craftspersons marry the spirits from both casks together, using all their know-how to achieve just the right amount of balance in depth and flavour. Some say this process is just a science but it is truly an art form.
On the nose: there is a warm invitation of honey, marzipan, mandrins and oranges. These enticing notes are closely followed by notes of grapefruits, ripe cherries, bergamot, jasmine and a hint of vanilla. Some subtle spicy notes of cinnamon, cardamom and stem ginger start to emerge. Completing the nose is a hint of lemon grass, currants and notes of dark berries. On the palate: those warm and sweet notes of honey, mandarin and cherries are ever-present, alongside notes of sanguinello oranges, bergamot and caramel. After a few swirls in the glass, notes of blackberries start to emerge, as well as notes of mixed spices, marzipan and cinnamon. Rounding-off the palate are notes of sticky toffee, liqourice and a hint of ginger. The finish: is medium, sweet alongside some bitter bergamot notes, with lingering espresso-like notes.
The verdict: As I’d mentioned at the start of these tasting notes, its been some time since we last tasted some Aberlour and this was a delighful return. This is a 14yo drop of liquid gold that is rather interesting and has quite a good balance. It has tonnes of character but perhaps lacks a little in depth of flavour. With a ABV of 40%, it doesn’t require any water to unlock the full plethora of notes on offer.
The Aberlour 14 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is available to purchase at any well-stocked whisky shop for approximately £55. For more information on this 14-year-old expression, visit aberlour.com
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