Royal Brackla 10 Years Old 2011 Cask #93900064 (Duncan Taylor)

Single malt Royal Brackla, an independent Duncan Taylor bottling, a 10 year old from 2011, drawn from cask 93900064 and bottled at 54.4%. 386 bottles in all. Opened in 1812 in Nairnshire, by Cawdor Castle, Royal Brackla is the King's Own Whisky. It was the first Scotch whisky to hold a royal warrant, renewed by Queen Victoria in 1838.

Drawn off copper stills with horizontal shell and tube condensers, building the elegant Highland style it is loved for. A sherry cask wrapped the fruity spirit in dried fruit and a nutty depth. At a youthful age the fruit is lively and the spice gentle. The light, elegant spirit shows cask character clearly even after years in oak. The malt is prized by blenders for its fragrant, fruity lift. Sherry and wine casks suit the elegant spirit, adding fruit and depth. The distillery was rebuilt and expanded across its long working life.

At a natural 54.4% it is full and fruity. The Oloroso brings dried fruit, fig and a nutty depth, and a fruity, honeyed elegance meet honeyed oak sweetness underneath. Beneath it run honey, apple and a warm spice. It finishes clean, elegant and fruity. This is an elegant, fruity Highland single malt.