Description

Cadenhead’s 2013 Enigma Aged 11 Years Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 57.5%           Age: 11 Years Old            Country: Scotland

The Whisky

Step into the mystery of the Lowlands with the Cadenhead’s Enigma Lowland 11 Year Old. Part of the 2024 Enigma Series—a collection designed to showcase specific regional styles or unique cask experiments without a distillery name on the label—this 700ml expression is a high octane celebration of Scotland’s southern spirit. Bottled at a resounding cask strength of 57.5% ABV, it has been matured in a marriage of Bourbon barrels and Sherry hogsheads.

Inside information regarding the “Enigma” releases suggests they are often sourced from top-tier distilleries where name-use is restricted, or from vatted parcels that capture the “quintessential” character of a region. For this Lowland edition, the focus is on citrus, grassiness, and buttery pastry, amplified by the high proof delivery. Non-chill filtered and natural in colour, it offers a raw, industrial power rarely seen in the usually delicate Lowland category.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: Fresh and remarkably buttery. You are greeted by the scent of lemon drizzle cake and fresh shortbread, followed by a crisp, green note of cut grass and lime peel. As the high ABV opens up, it reveals delicate layers of honeysuckle, vanilla bean, and a hint of dusty cereal.

Palate: The arrival is sharp and electric. It delivers a concentrated burst of citrus oils and poached pears, which transitions into a creamy mid-palate of custard creams and white chocolate. The sherry influence adds a subtle, dry fruitiness—think dried apricots and golden raisins—while a warming prickle of white pepper reminds you of the 57.5% strength.

Finish: Long, clean, and evolving. The finish lingers with a zesty grapefruit tang and herbal tea, finally tapering off with a savoury sweet flourish of toasted almonds and dry oak.

The Region

The Lowlands region, historically known as the “Lowland Ladies” due to their light and floral character, is currently undergoing a massive resurgence. Traditionally, these whiskies were often triple distilled (though not always) and were the backbone of the great Scottish blending houses. A unique factual detail: The Lowland style is defined by a lack of peat and a focus on the natural sweetness of the barley, often resulting in “aperitif” style whiskies. By bottling this at cask strength, Cadenhead’s subverts the “gentle” stereotype, proving that Lowland malt can be just as robust and complex as its Highland counterparts.

Overall Review

The Cadenhead’s Enigma Lowland 11 Year Old is globally reviewed as a “Lowland powerhouse,” praised for maintaining its regional elegance despite the high proof. Critics have lauded its “bright, sunshine-filled” profile and exceptional value, making it a mandatory purchase for those who want to experience the hidden, high definition side of Lowland distilling.