The Distiller’s Edition Features a selection of single malt scotches from the different regions. I got a chance to try Cragganmore from Speyside, Glenkinchie from the Lowlands, and Dalwhinnie from the Highlands. A showing of years of skill and understanding of single malt and finishing techniques from master blenders and distillers.
The Cragganmore is Double Matured in Port seasoned, American Oak casks, Coming in at 80 proof with a roasted vanilla and almond nose that invites you in. The first sip was sweet with vanilla that faded into the sweet port and vinous flavors. A medium body that was silky and coated the mouth like cream. Drifting off to a fairly short finish of creamy dark chocolate.
The Glenkinchie is Double Matured in Amontillado seasoned American Oak casks. Coming in at 86 proof there is a strong nose of sweet white grapes that drifts into the dryness of the sherry. The smooth mouthfeel along with the very sweet fruity notes of the grapes and spice notes on the lips are pleasant up until the finish which dries the mouth and has a heavy bitterness of tannins.
The Dalwhinnie is Double Matured in Oloroso seasoned American Oak casks and proofed down to 86. The palomino grapes of the oloroso bring in a strong tropical fruit punch aroma with almond notes on the nose. The first sip is sharp and vinous that leads into a sweet tropical fruit with papaya and coconut cream. There are a lot of layers to this one with cloves and banana being the strongest recurring notes. The finish is short and dry like a pomelo but pleasant overall.
