Arran 21st Anniversary Ltd. Ed.

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The Arran Distillery marked its 21st Anniversary in June of this past year. To celebrate the distillery has launched a limited edition 21st Anniversary bottling. Although there is no age statement, it is believed to be 19 years of age, with all of the production having come from the first 3 years (1995, 1996 and 1997). It has been matured in Sherry Hogsheads and bottled at 52.6%. Only 5,988 bottles have been released worldwide, with fewer than 200 having come to Alberta! 

Producer Description: "For this anniversary expression, we wanted the bottling to be totally different from our core range. The decanter style adds a tactile and luxurious element to the pack and distinguishes it as landmark in the maturation of the Arran Malt.”

Distillery Manager James MacTaggart on the Expression: “I have chosen a selection of our oldest ex-Oloroso Sherry Hogsheads. Over the years, the fresh notes of citrus and malt in our delicate new spirit have integrated beautifully. The nose is rich and fruity with a luxurious palate leading to a long and satisfying finish. It has been a pleasure to nurture the maturation of this precious spirit and see it become the most fitting dram with which toast our 21st Anniversary.”

Andrew's Tasting Note

Nose: rich, fruity, creamy and nutty; some lovely layers; dark milk chocolate, smooth new leather, candied nuts and dried citrus; becomes more toasty and floral with some waxy tones; tropical fruits and ripe cantaloupe develop.

Palate: rich, fruity, nutty and smooth; decadent and waxy with a silky delivery of honey, vanilla and candied fruits; more candied nuts and juicy (rather than dried) citrus with soft floral tones; dark milk chocolate is still there with treacle sauce and emerging tropical fruits.

Finish: long, rich, smooth and elegant; the Arran continues to unfurl its wings even as it takes flight.

Comment: this is a beautiful malt, and a fine tribute to Arran's 21st Anniversary; the strength, 52.6% is barely perceptible; a lovely, and rare whisky!

Distiller's Tasting Note

Nose: Tropical notes of mango mix with wax polish and red apple sweetness.

Palate: Pears, honey and European oak character. A hint of basil, black pepper spice and dark chocolate. Citrus fruits appear with water.

Finish: Long and warming with ginger, lemongrass and a hint of marzipan.

700 ml