Edradour Natural Cask Strength 10 Years Old 2012 (58.9%)

Edradour from the distillery, a 10 year old, from 2012, cask 223-225, 227-230, at 58.9%, 1677 bottles in all. Edradour is a creamy, sherried Highland single malt from one of the smallest distilleries in Scotland. For years its sign read Scotland's smallest distillery; it now calls itself Scotland's little gem.

The spirit was made in the smallest of stills and condensed in worm tubs, for the rich, oily make Edradour is known for. A refill bourbon hogshead held it, keeping the rich, oily character to the fore. By the integrating teens congeners fade and esters build, the rich, oily spirit growing creamier. A small distillery and a hands on approach shape every cask by hand. It keeps the old ways, with an open cast iron mash tun, Oregon pine washbacks and worm tub condensers. The cool Highland air of the glen gives a slow, even maturation in the small Edradour warehouses.

At 58.9%, undiluted, it is deep and concentrated. Dried fruit, chocolate and a nutty oil, with a soft vanilla from the oak. The mouthfeel is thick and oily, the fruit on a creamy body. The finish runs long, nutty and warming. This is a Highland single malt of real character.