Convalmore 15 Years Old 1983 Chieftain’s Choice (Ian Macleod)

A Convalmore of a 15 year old chosen by the independent Ian Macleod, distilled in 1983, bottled at 43%. Convalmore, the fourth of Dufftown's seven stills, was a robust, old fashioned Speysider. A fire in 1909 all but destroyed it, with flames said to reach forty feet, and it was rebuilt.

The spirit was worked through the pot stills for a waxy, malty make, for a waxy, fruity make of real depth. Ex-Bourbon casks held it, soft oak that lets the firm, fruity malt lead. At oxidative maturity aldehydes and esters lend dried fruit while ellagitannins add a drying, structured grip. The robust spirit was built for the blender's art, waxy and full. Most Convalmore went quietly into blends, a little surviving as single malt. A long maturation suits the full bodied make, the fruit growing richer with time. The clean spirit shows the cask clearly, vanilla and honey over a malty wax. No new spirit has followed it since the stills fell quiet in 1985.

At 43% it is smooth and fruity. Baked apple, honey and a waxy depth, with a soft vanilla from the oak. The mouthfeel is oily and firm, the fruit carried on a malty body. The finish runs waxy, fruity and warm. This is Convalmore's firm, fruity Speyside style.