Craigellachie 19 Year

I was captivated by Craigellachie last year after sampling their 13 year old and have since been acquiring and opening other expressions, both official and independent. Unfortunately, none have surpassed the 13 year old, even this considerably pricier 19 year old. On a positive note, I found this bottle at an excellent price in an unexpected location. The typical online cost is around 120 British pounds, but I discovered a solitary, dusty bottle at the airport for 120 USD. This is a travel retail exclusive, and it makes sense they would reserve this for travelers. I still appreciate this dram, but it lacks the intensity of the 13 year old. The aroma is much milder, featuring many floral notes and wintermelon; it's more perfumed compared to the official 13 year old. On the palate, it has a pleasing creamy texture with vanilla and citrus on the arrival. The well-known (or infamous) Craigellachie wormtub sulfur notes appear later, becoming very pronounced on the finish – much more so than the 13 year old. The finish is also astringent, metallic, and completely unlike the nose. The flavors become much smoother with a few drops of water, which I would suggest. I enjoy this dram. I don't anticipate many others will. I don't regret the purchase. I expect many others will. ASSESSED RATING: 90/100

This is certainly not your typical whiskey, but it does earn points for complexity. It has a somewhat potpourri-like quality (floral) with hints of smoke, melon, and honey. It's not actually very good. The finish is particularly strange, with a bitterness I find unforgiving. These 19 years were not well spent.

From the North Shore Whisky Club: a US exclusive bottled at cask strength (56.5%). It didn't impress me.

Absolutely excellent! Packed with taste. No need to add water; it's perfect as is.

Fresh, straw, small apple. Flavorful yet subtle.

Quite pleasant and remarkably smooth. Pairs wonderfully with a cigar.