Glencadam 17 Years Old 2004

This official Glencadam, a 17 year old, from 2004, at 46%, 7770 bottles in all. Glencadam is a Highland single malt whose upward angled lyne arms give a light, fruity spirit. Its water comes from Loch Lee in the Cairngorms, piped down through the River Esk catchment. It was bought by Angus Dundee Distillers in 2003, who also own Tomintoul, ending a three year closure.

The spirit was taken gently through wash and spirit stills, 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. Into oxidative maturity, slow air builds tropical esters of mango and pineapple over a creamy depth. Active wood frames the fruit without ever crowding the light Highland spirit. First fill wood drives the maturation, the cask clear in the light spirit. Long ageing turns the fresh pear towards tropical fruit, honey and a gentle spice.

Reduced to 46%, it is mellow and fragrant. A delicate, tropical fruit with a soft body, with red berry, plum and a dry spice from the cask. A light orchard fruit and a soft spice give it shape. The finish is light, fruity and clean. This is the gentle, fruity malt of the eastern Highlands.