Dalwhinnie 15 Years Old

An official release of Dalwhinnie, a 15 year old, at 43%. Dalwhinnie has made its light, waxy Highland malt beside the Drumochter hills since 1898. It is most famous as a 15 year old, sold alongside Talisker and Oban in the classic range.

The spirit was run through the pear shaped stills on soft snowmelt water, the worm tubs lending an underlying waxy weight. A refill bourbon hogshead held it, keeping the light, honeyed character to the fore. At oxidative maturity aldehydes lend a nutty edge while ellagitannins add a gentle, drying grip to the honey. Years in oak round the spirit, the apple and honey deepening over the waxy core. Soft snowmelt water and a clean ferment give the fragrant Dalwhinnie make. The cold, high air of the central hills gives a slow, even maturation. In 1934 a fire destroyed much of the stillhouse, which was rebuilt around the original worm tubs.

At 43% it is smooth and honeyed. Baked apple, honey and a waxy note, with a soft vanilla from the oak. A dried fruit and a soft oak give it depth. The finish is rounded, honeyed and gently warming. This is a gentle, honeyed Highland single malt.