Glencadam 14 Years Old

A 14 year old Glencadam, a distillery bottling, at 46%. Glencadam is a Highland single malt, the last distillery in Brechin and the only one in Angus. It became a core malt of the Ballantine's blend after Hiram Walker bought it in 1954. Most of its make long went to blends; bottled single malt Glencadam was rare until a full range arrived. Its stills carry lyne arms angled upward, raising the reflux for a lighter, fruitier spirit. It was founded in 1825 by the merchant George Cooper, soon after the Excise Act made licensed distilling viable.

The spirit was worked unhurried through the stillhouse, for a fine, fruity spirit with a light body. Maturation came in an Oloroso cask, layered over the delicate Glencadam make. In integration coconut and vanilla knit with the malt, the pear softening towards a creamy honey. First fill wood drives the maturation, the cask clear in the light spirit.

Reduced to 46%, it is mellow and fragrant. Melon, pear and a soft, creamy sweetness, with dried fruit, fig and walnut from the cask. A green apple and a gentle citrus lift the middle. The finish is light, fruity and clean. This is a gently fruity, creamy Highland malt.