Glencadam 15 Years Old 2006 (Cask 3)

A distillery release of Glencadam, a 15 year old, from 2006, cask 3, at 61.1%, 302 bottles in all. Glencadam is a Highland single malt, long a core flavour of the Ballantine's blend. It is the only distillery in Angus, and the last in Brechin since North Port closed in 1983. The distillery markets itself on a deliberately delicate house style, all orchard and tropical fruit. Most of its make long went to blends; bottled single malt Glencadam was rare until a full range arrived. It was bought by Angus Dundee Distillers in 2003, who also own Tomintoul, ending a three year closure.

It was distilled from unpeated malt, for a creamy, fruity make with real elegance. Maturation came in a Port cask, layered over the delicate Glencadam make. At oxidative maturity aldehydes lend a nutty edge while ellagitannins draw a gentle, drying grip across the fruit. The clean, fruity spirit deepens with time, the cask drawing out a creamy honey.

At a natural 61.1% it is full and creamy. A clean, fruity sweetness with a floral lift, with red berry, plum and a dry spice from the cask. A light orchard fruit and a soft spice give it shape. A long, fruity finish carries a creamy honey. This is a gently fruity, creamy Highland malt.