Caperdonich 20 Years Old 2000 Cask #29481 (Signatory)

A Caperdonich drawn by the Pitlochry bottler Signatory Vintage, distilled in 2000, from cask 29481, bottled at 56.4%, one of 216 bottles. Caperdonich, a ghost of Speyside, was demolished in 2011 to make way for a coppersmith's works. It was rarely bottled as a single malt in its lifetime, so most come from independents.

The spirit was drawn off the tall stills on Caperdonich Burn water, for the light, creamy, fruity make Caperdonich is known for. A bourbon barrel held it, lending vanilla and a little cream. Through oxidative maturity esters concentrate, pear turning to mango over a waxy, creamy body. The cool Speyside air gave a slow, even maturation in the Rothes warehouses. Its four stills were dispersed, a pair going as far as Belgium and others to Falkirk. Its spirit went largely into blends such as Chivas Regal and Royal Salute. With Caperdonich demolished, every bottle draws on a finite, dwindling stock.

At cask strength 56.4% it is full bodied. Cream, orchard fruit and a gentle spice, with a soft vanilla from the oak. It is creamy and fruity, the soft spirit shining through. It finishes creamy, fruity and waxy. This is a waxy, pear scented Speyside single malt.