Description

Ardnamurchan AD/ Sauternes Cask Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml            ABV: 50%           Age: No Age Statement           Country: Scotland

Located on the most westerly point of the British mainland sits the Ardnamurchan Distillery. Probably one of the most sustainable distilleries in the United Kingdom if not the world, plenty of thought has been given to the environment before designing and developing this distillery. There’s a local hydro-electric generator that provides the cooling water and local forest wood chips that are used to heat the hot water for mashing. The draft left behind after the mash is used to feed local cattle and the pot ale is used for fertilising local fields. Owned and operated by Adelphi the distillery it boasts 2 stills and 7 wash backs. The owners of the distillery are also a very well know quality independent bottler.

Get ready for an exquisite journey to the remote Highlands with the Ardnamurchan AD/ Sauternes Cask Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)! This limited release from Ardnamurchan Distillery  offers a truly unique and captivating whisky experience. Ardnamurchan’s core spirit is already celebrated for its distinctive West Highland character, and in this release, it meets the rich, honeyed influence of Sauternes wine casks. Sauternes is a renowned sweet white wine from Bordeaux, France, famous for its complex and luscious flavours derived from “noble rot” grapes.

This particular expression features 100% unpeated Ardnamurchan spirit, which was initially matured in ex-bourbon casks. It then underwent a significant finishing period of around 2.5 to 30 months in Sauternes wine barriques. This secondary maturation imbues the whisky with layers of sophisticated sweetness and aromatic fruitiness that beautifully complement the distillery’s vibrant distillate. Bottled at a robust 50% alc/vol, and as always with Ardnamurchan, it is non-chill filtered and natural in colour, ensuring that every nuance of its maturation journey is preserved. This limited release, with only around 6,000 bottles worldwide, is a testament to Ardnamurchan’s experimental spirit and their ability to craft truly engaging whiskies.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: Prepare for an alluring bouquet of apricot jam, dried stone fruits, marzipan, brioche, and delicate citrus zest. You might also find notes of almond flakes, honey, and a hint of something floral or bready.

Palate: The influence of the Sauternes casks shines through with sweet honey, green apples, and perhaps a touch of lemon and grapefruit. There’s a delightful richness and mouthfeel, often with hints of toasted nuts, caramel, and a subtle salinity that is a hallmark of Ardnamurchan. Some tasters even find savoury undertones, balancing the sweetness.

Finish: Expect a medium-long, well-balanced finish that is less sweet than the initial nose, often evolving into pleasantly drying spice, subtle herbs, and the lingering minerality or “sea spray” character that Ardnamurchan is famed for.

The Ardnamurchan AD/ Sauternes Cask is a fantastic opportunity to explore the interplay of Highland malt with the opulent sweetness of a world class dessert wine. It’s an elegant and complex whisky that will undoubtedly appeal to both long-time Ardnamurchan fans and those looking for a unique and flavourful single malt. Don’t miss out on adding this distinctive bottle to your collection!