Founded in 1995, this expression started out life as one of Isle of Aaran's first whiskies, with Murray McDavid (aka Bruichladdich) providing a limited independent bottling of the 1996 cask, aged for 12 years and finished in Chateau Margaux casks. Being one of a run of 1,500 bottles it is pleasure to have been able to find this through extensive sleuthing at the LCBO.
Nose: The bright colour foreshadows the apricot and dark caramel which prevail. With a hint of citrus, rich floral red wine notes and a hint of cognac, the well rounded nose closes with whisp of mint.
Palate: A pleasant smooth, viscous mouthfeel is present both when consumed neat or with a splash of water, but I would recommend that splash to tone down the ample heat provided by this 46% abv dram. Flavours abound with marmalade, allspice, full bodied ripe fruit, and raisins taking centre stage. The roast of the malt arrives early with a nice mustiness of oak, while the wine notes appear late.
Finish: Delightfully dry, with fruit notes lingering on the sides of the tongue, apricot, cognac and wine elements stay around long into the finish.
Overall: A solid value at $84, this single malt is likely best suited as an aperatif where its long, lazy finish and rich fruit notes will be allowed to play out to full effect. This is not a whisky to rush through and I would advise that it be consumed over a slow conversation on the back deck during a warm summer's eve. All in all, very much worth seeking out!
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