Royal Brackla 16 Years Old 2009 Cask #304129 (Archives)

A Royal Brackla single malt, selected and bottled by Archives matured to 16 year old from 2009, drawn from cask 304129 and bottled at 52.4%. Only 164 bottles were released. Set in the Highlands on the estate of Cawdor Castle, Royal Brackla has distilled since 1812. It is one of only three distilleries to carry the Royal name in Scotch.

Double distilled in tall copper pot stills with upward angled lyne arms, giving the refined, lightly spiced make at its heart. An ex-Bourbon barrel shaped it, gentle American oak beneath the fruit. 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. Unpeated and fruit led, the spirit takes sherry and wine casks gracefully. The Cawdor Estate has grown barley and made spirit for two centuries. A long, cool maturation rounds the fruit into honey and dried fruit.

At a natural 52.4% it is full and fruity. The refill oak lending honey and vanilla, with orchard fruit and a gentle spice. The mouthfeel is round, the fruit carried on a honeyed body. A warming, fruity finish lingers. This is a polished, fruity Highland whisky.