Description

Cadenhead’s 2008 Enigma Aged 16 Years Pineau Des Charentes Finish Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 51.9%           Age: 16 Years Old            Country: Scotland

The Whisky

Step into a masterclass of cask experimentation with the Cadenhead’s 2008 Enigma 16 Year Old (Pineau des Charentes Finish). Part of the curious and transparent Enigma Series, this 700ml Speyside single malt was distilled in 2008 and bottled in 2024 at a natural cask strength of 51.9% ABV. After more than a decade in traditional oak, this whisky was granted a transformative finish in Pineau des Charentes casks—a rare fortified wine from western France that blends unfermented grape juice with Cognac eau-de-vie.

Inside information reveals that the “Enigma” designation for this release covers a spirit that is classically Speyside—floral, honeyed, and elegant. The choice of Pineau des Charentes wood is an inspired one; it provides a “third dimension” of flavour, bridging the gap between the orchard fruit of the malt and the vinous, grape heavy sweetness of the wine. As with all Cadenhead releases, it is non-chill filtered and natural in colour, allowing the unique golden hue from the French oak to shine through.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: An immediate and lush fruitiness. You are greeted by the scent of honey-glazed apricots and fresh nectarines, followed by a distinctively floral note of elderflower and honeysuckle. As it opens, deeper aromas of creamy vanilla and golden syrup emerge, with a subtle hint of green grape.

Palate: The mouthfeel is oily and decadent. It opens with a burst of poached pears and white grapes, characteristic of the Pineau finish. Mid-palate, the 51.9% ABV carries a spicy warmth of stem ginger and white pepper, beautifully balanced by sultanas and a touch of shortbread sweetness.

Finish: Long, drying, and elegant. The finish lingers with a zesty lemon curd tang, finally tapering off with a return of that vinous grape sweetness and soft oak tannins.

The Region

Speyside is the spiritual heartland of Scotch whisky, home to over half of Scotland’s malt distilleries. Known for its approachable, sweet, and fruity profiles, Speyside malts are traditionally matured in either Bourbon or Sherry wood. A unique factual detail: The use of Pineau des Charentes casks is a modern innovation that is becoming highly prized for its ability to add a “bright, acidic fruitiness” that Sherry casks sometimes lack. By selecting a 16 year old spirit for this finish, Cadenhead’s ensures the wood has enough “weight” to carry the sophisticated French wine influence without losing its Highland soul.

Overall Review

The Cadenhead’s 16 Year Old Enigma Pineau Finish is globally reviewed as a “fruit forward triumph,” praised for its seamless integration of wine and malt. Critics have lauded its oily texture and unique grape-driven complexity, making it a mandatory acquisition for enthusiasts looking for a sophisticated Speyside dram that breaks the traditional mould.