Arran 1996 The Golden Cask (cask #CM199)

Arran 1996 The Golden Cask (cask #CM199), ~16 YO, 52%

Image from Whisky Base

An old release from independent bottler The House of MacDuff in their series The Golden Cask. Distilled 1996, matured in a single ex-bourbon hogshead (cask #CM199), and bottled 2013. Limited to 263 bottles.

Nose: Warm and honeyed with caramel and earthy vanilla. A soft nuttiness develops over time, along with a gentle hint of tropical fruits.

Taste: Full bodied. Smooth, rich and creamy with butterscotch, vanilla, white pepper and a subtle touch of pencil shavings.

Finish: Medium to long. Spiciness lifts, bringing fizzy ginger, light citrus and ripe apples drizzled with honey.

Comment: Warm sweetness. 

Score 87/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas