Glencadam 30 Years Old 1978

Glencadam from the distillery, a 30 year old, from 1978, cask 2335, at 46%, 615 bottles in all. Glencadam is a Highland single malt, the last distillery in Brechin and the only one in Angus. It was bought by Angus Dundee Distillers in 2003, who also own Tomintoul, ending a three year closure. Its stills carry lyne arms angled upward, raising the reflux for a lighter, fruitier spirit.

Worked unhurried through the stillhouse, shaping a gentle, fragrant malt with a tropical lift. An Oloroso cask held it, drawing the light spirit on over the years. Ethereal and fragile, the decades draw it to a honeyed, waxy delicacy of tropical fruit and old oak. Long ageing turns the fresh pear towards tropical fruit, honey and a gentle spice. A soft, creamy texture from the spirit carries through the maturation. Active wood frames the fruit without ever crowding the light Highland spirit.

At 46% it is fruity, creamy and soft. Melon, pear and a soft, creamy sweetness, with dried fruit, fig and walnut from the cask. Beneath it run pear, apple and a soft cream. A fresh finish closes on pear and a soft oak. This is Glencadam's creamy, fruity Highland character.