Royal Brackla 13 Years Old 2008 Cask Series 020 (North Star)

North Star Spirits selected this Royal Brackla matured to 13 year old from 2008 and bottled at 53.2%. The outturn was 225 bottles. Established in 1812 on the Cawdor Estate of Macbeth fame, Royal Brackla is the King's Own Whisky. Cawdor Castle, said to inspire Shakespeare's Macbeth, stands on the same estate.

It was distilled twice on soft Cawdor Burn water, for a clean, floral spirit with a gentle spice. An American oak cask shaped it, flattering the elegant, fruity make. By this age the orchard fruit rounds into honey and a fuller spice. The cool Highland climate gives a slow, even maturation over many years. The malt is prized by blenders for its fragrant, fruity lift. Sherry and wine casks suit the elegant spirit, adding fruit and depth. The distillery was rebuilt and expanded across its long working life. A fruity, lightly spiced make sits at the heart of every bottling.

At its natural 53.2% it is concentrated. A gentle vanilla and coconut from the wood, with pear, honey and a warm spice. The texture is smooth and rounded, the fruit lifted by honey. The finish runs honeyed, spiced and soft. This is Royal Brackla's refined Highland style.