Glencadam 13 Years Old 2006

This official Glencadam, a 13 year old, from 2006, cask 336100, at 61.6%, 815 bottles in all. Glencadam is a Highland single malt, founded in 1825 in Angus, in the eastern Highlands. It was bought by Angus Dundee Distillers in 2003, who also own Tomintoul, ending a three year closure. Most of its make long went to blends; bottled single malt Glencadam was rare until a full range arrived.

The spirit was worked unhurried through the stillhouse, building a soft malt of orchard fruit and a creamy sweetness. It was fully matured in a Port cask, the wood deep in the fruity spirit. In integration coconut and vanilla knit with the malt, the pear softening towards a creamy honey. Vanillin and oak lactones from the wood lend vanilla and a soft coconut over the fruit. Active wood frames the fruit without ever crowding the light Highland spirit.

At a hearty 61.6% it carries real weight. Pear, apple and a soft cream, with red berry, plum and a dry spice from the cask. A light orchard fruit and a soft spice give it shape. The close is light and clean, fruit over a gentle oak. This is the gentle, fruity malt of the eastern Highlands.