Royal Brackla 15 Years Old 2006 Cask #310820 (Connoisseurs Choice)

Gordon & MacPhail selected this Royal Brackla, a 15 year old Highland malt from 2006, drawn from cask 310820 and bottled at 58.3%. The outturn was 219 bottles. Set in the Highlands on the estate of Cawdor Castle, Royal Brackla has distilled since 1812. Cawdor Castle, said to inspire Shakespeare's Macbeth, stands on the same estate.

Double distilled in tall copper pot stills with upward angled lyne arms, giving the refined, lightly spiced make at its heart. It rested in ex-Bourbon oak, the wood adding a light honeyed sweetness. Around twelve to sixteen years the malt gains a sherried depth over the fruit. Years in oak round the spirit, the fruit and spice deepening with age. Few Highland malts wear their history as openly as this one. The spirit was long destined for blends before its single malt revival. Royal Brackla was the first Scotch whisky ever to be granted a royal warrant.

At a hearty 58.3% it carries real weight. The refill oak lending honey and vanilla, with pear, honey and a warm spice. The texture is smooth and rounded, the fruit lifted by honey. A warming, fruity finish lingers. This is Royal Brackla's refined Highland style.