Aberfeldy Exceptional Cask Series 18 Year Double Cask

This unique offering from Aberfeldy caught my eye while considering how to use a gift card. I briefly contemplated Dalmore 18 but selected this for its distinctiveness. The visual appearance is striking, remarkably dark, resembling deeply steeped black tea. This color is reportedly natural. At 53.8% ABV, I sampled a small amount neat before diluting to 46% with water. The following notes are based on the 46% dilution. Nose: Abundant notes of grapes, raisins, figs, and cinnamon. It presents a highly distinctive aroma, reminiscent of Christmas plum pudding cake, which I had for the first time recently. It is spicy, rich, and sweet. Palate: Begins with brown sugar and caramel, swiftly transitioning to cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Pronounced dryness on the sides of the tongue, derived from tannins, creates a complex sensory interaction. Finish: Exceptionally long and spicy. Cinnamon persists, accompanied by a black pepper finish lasting over a minute. There might be a hint of minty coolness and a subtle smokiness, though its origin is unclear as the spirit is unpeated. The tingling sensation from tannins continues on the sides of the tongue and the back of the palate. Overall, I am highly satisfied with this purchase. Its uniqueness is notable, and I intend to savor it carefully over the next few years.

A very deep, reddish-bronze hue. Smells of ripe plum and pear cider. The flavor is robust, sharp, and spicy with notes of baking spices, cherries, and a light citrus... all finishing with white pepper. It has a soft, fairly substantial mouthfeel. At 53.5% alcohol by volume, this is a bold, intricate, and vibrant Scotch. 4.08

This spirit is exceptionally dark! It makes you question if it's even Whisky! Yet, it's supposedly Non Chill Filtered, Natural Color, and Cask Strength.

A potent spirit that stings the mouth with a touch of heat.