William Cadenhead 1973 Blended Scotch Whisky (Cadenhead’s)

William Cadenhead 1973 Blended Scotch Whisky (Cadenhead's) is a 45 year old blended Scotch from Cadenhead's. It marries malt and grain whiskies, with Speyside malt such as Glenfarclas for a rich, fruity core. Glenfarclas brings the depth of a richly sherried Speyside malt to the blend.

Glenfarclas's full malt rounds it with a deep, fruity weight. Ex-Bourbon casks held it, the American oak lending vanilla and a light honey. The blend carries a full, fruity body through the years. The blend holds a warm, fruity centre with a soft, dry finish. The malt and grain marry over the years into a smooth, rounded whole. The finish is long and warm, fruit fading into a dry oak. It carries a quiet weight, the malt giving body to the grain. A long marriage in cask leaves it smooth, sweet and deep. The components sit easily together, sherried fruit over a soft grain. Older casks lend a polished oak and a mellow, sweet depth.

Bottled at 43.1%, it is rounded and full. Raisin, chocolate and a warm spice run through it. The mouthfeel is full and coating, the fruit dark and sweet. It finishes long, full and fruity. A characterful blended Scotch.