Fettercairn 17 Years Old 1997 The First Editions (Edition Spirits)

This Fettercairn was bottled by Edition Spirits, a 17 year old, distilled in 1997, bottled at 58.5%, one of 278 bottles. Fettercairn is a fruity Highland single malt made at one of Scotland's oldest licensed distilleries, founded in 1824. It was founded in 1824 by Sir Alexander Ramsay, who turned a corn mill at Nethermill into a distillery.

Made on mountain water with the stills drenched in cold water, giving the light, pineapple led Highland spirit. Ex-Bourbon casks held it, the American oak letting the fruit lead. At oxidative maturity vanillin and lactones are fully expressed, the fruit deepening over a soft spice. Vanillin and oak lactones from the wood lend vanilla and coconut over the fruit. It was the second distillery licensed in Scotland after the Excise Act of 1823. American oak suits the tropical make, lending vanilla and coconut over the fruit.

At its natural 58.5% it is concentrated. Mango, citrus and a soft honey, with a soft vanilla from the oak. Soft tropical fruit and a vanilla sit behind the cask. The finish is long, fruity and gently spiced. This is a Highland single malt of real character.