Glencadam 27 Years Old 1990 Cask #18/080

Gordon and MacPhail, the Elgin grocer laying down casks on South Street since 1895, bottled this Glencadam, distilled in 1990, from cask 18/080, at 49.9%, one of 124 bottles. Glencadam is a Highland single malt, long a core flavour of the Ballantine's blend. Most of its make long went to blends; bottled single malt Glencadam was rare until a full range arrived.

Taken gently through wash and spirit stills, for the delicate, fruity make Glencadam is known for. A bourbon barrel held it, the wood adding a soft honey over the orchard fruit. In the oxidative, evaporative years the spirit concentrates to tropical fruit, honey and a waxy depth. A soft, creamy texture from the spirit carries through the maturation. Active wood frames the fruit without ever crowding the light Highland spirit. Because the upward lyne arms keep the spirit light, the cask shows clearly through the years.

At its natural 49.9% it is full and fruity. Melon, pear and a soft, creamy sweetness, lifted by a soft oak. Melon, pear and a creamy honey fill the middle. The close is light and clean, fruit over a gentle oak. This is Glencadam's creamy, fruity Highland character.