Aberlour 14 Year Double Cask Matured

This distillery is a classic from Speyside, recognized for its caramelized apple flavor and smooth character. This is a new 14-year-old, double cask matured version, finished in European sherry oak and American oak barrels. It has a tawny color and is bottled at 40% ABV. On the nose, it presents a pleasant, fruity profile with red apples, pepper, and pear. It's very fruity, with subtle citrus notes like grapefruit. The pear aroma is exceptionally clean and distinct. Upon the first taste, a sophisticated homemade toffee emerges, accompanied by hints of creamy vanilla. On the palate, it's very easy to drink, allowing for prolonged enjoyment. Notes of red apples and clove are present. It's incredibly smooth; a second sip reveals vanilla, mashed apples, and toffee. The aftertaste is well-balanced, contributing to the spirit's overall coherence. Dry grass, hay, tobacco, and clove notes are prominent, giving it a predominantly brown-grassy character. Overall, this is a very well-rounded whiskey. While not outstanding in any single aspect, it's far from bad. It's highly enjoyable and perfectly balanced, making it an ideal choice for daily drinking. I award it a score of 80 out of 100, with 20 points for each category.

Nose: Dried fruits, oak, red berries. Malt. Low alcohol perception. Becomes sweeter with water, revealing vanilla and a little spice. Taste: Alcohol is noticeable initially, followed by red fruit and orange. Dry and straightforward. Sherry cask notes of red fruit and orange marmalade are accompanied by sweet spice undertones. Finish: Full, medium, and smooth. A portion aged in American oak casks, another in Spanish sherry casks, then both are married and bottled. A pleasant single malt at 40% alcohol. Best enjoyed with a splash of water. 80/100

No scent, lots of vanilla, caramel, and a prominent Sherry. On the palate, light notes of dark fruit, reminiscent of blueberry, deep caramelization, a light smoky touch, and slight minerality. Oily body, with a medium-intensity and duration finish.

Nose: Vanilla, Blackberry, Toffee, Milk Chocolate, Brown Sugar, Raisin. Palate: Spices, Candied Orange, Vanilla, Green Apple. Finish: Medium length, a touch of bitterness, woody notes.

Aroma: Vanilla, apples, plums. Taste: Apples, vanilla, plums. Finish: Oak, plums. A very pleasant blend of fruitiness and sherry notes. The low alcohol content limits the score.

Improves significantly on the 12yo expression, offering a more robust palate and a better red fruit/wine character without overwhelming the finish.