Aberlour Casg Annamh
For those familiar with my whisky journey, you’ll know that the Aberlour distillery holds a special place in my heart. It was here that my love affair with whisky began, and the diverse selection of their expressions continues to captivate my palate to this day. Among their offerings is the Casg Annamh series, a collection with each batch uniquely branded, aptly named 'Rare Cask' in Gaelic. Straying from the convention of age statements, Casg Annamh is meticulously crafted in limited quantities, deriving its richness from a medley of Oloroso Sherry casks. Spoiler alert: I find it utterly enchanting!
Bottle
The bottle embodies the distinctive Aberlour silhouette, compact and robust, with a minimal label that allows the whisky take centre stage. What sets it apart from the Aberlour range is the grey wax on the lid, a distinctive touch the distillery uses to differentiate between expressions. The prominent embossing of the distillery name adds a touch of nostalgia, reminiscent of bottles from bygone eras—an exquisite nod to tradition.
Colour
In line with Aberlour’s core range, Casg Annamh boasts a lustrous deep gold or burnished hue, courtesy of the maturation in a combination of sherry and ex-bourbon casks.
Nose - The nose welcomes you with a rich, sweet aroma intertwined with an abundance of dried fruit. A subtle tang teases at the end, hinting at the forthcoming spice.
Palate - The flavour profile unfolds a delightful symphony of fruitiness, adorned with notes of raisins and dried apricots. Here the spice comes to the fore, offering a hint of cinnamon and a whisper of nutmeg.
Finish - A resplendent, lingering finish echoes the festive spirit of a Christmas cake. As the other flavours gracefully fade, a curious trace of liquorice adds a final touch of intrigue.
Overall
Being an unabashed admirer of Aberlour drams, I must proclaim that Casg Annamh is truly exceptional. Its presentation imparts a sense of indulgence, making every sip feel like a momentous occasion. Whisky, to me, is an experience that transcends mere flavors—from the instant the bottle is cradled to the final drop of the dram, and Casg Annamh certainly lives up to this expectation. While it may bear a slightly higher price tag than entry-level whiskies, I wholeheartedly believe it is an investment worth making. Treat yourself to this extraordinary expression, and let the allure of Aberlour's craftsmanship unfold.
Available from Master of Malt for £50-£60 depending on the batch or check price and availability at Amazon