Tullibardine 26 Years Old 1989 (Authentic Collection)

Single malt Tullibardine, bottled by Cadenhead's, a 26 year old Highland malt from 1989 and bottled at 53.4%. A release of 228 bottles. Opened in 1949 beneath the Ochil Hills at Blackford, Tullibardine is a soft, honeyed Highland malt. The name is Gaelic for lookout hill, after a nearby hill once used to watch for approaching strangers.

Distilled on soft Highland spring water, building the gentle Tullibardine style. It rested in ex-Bourbon oak, the wood adding a light honeyed sweetness. Past twenty years the spirit turns honeyed and full while staying soft. The slow loss of the angel's share concentrates the honeyed, malty core over time. Its water rises in the Ochil Hills, the same source that feeds the Highland Spring brand. After lean years and a long silence, private investors brought the distillery back to life in 2003. Picard is a Burgundy wine family, and their casks come from vineyards across France.

At 53.4%, undiluted, it is deep and fruity. A malty, honeyed sweetness sit alongside honeyed oak sweetness underneath. A baked apple and a gentle ginger lift it. It finishes soft, honeyed and clean. This is Tullibardine, the lookout hill malt.