Independent bottler Signatory Vintage just launched three new exclusive releases in collaboration with The Whisky Exchange, focusing solely on ex-bourbon maturation. The Bourbon Cask Series comprises single malts from Clynelish, Linkwood and Mortlach.
I noticed these whiskies popping up on the online retailer’s website a few weeks ago. Despite my best attempt to review them as quickly as possible, the Clynelish has already sold out. Unsurprising on the one hand – it is Clynelish after all – but surprising because at 145 quid it wasn’t exactly a steal either.
The Mortlach and the Linkwood are still available here. Spoiler alert: they are wonderful consolation prizes.
Clynelish 2008 17 Years (53.1%, Signatory Vintage ‘Bourbon Cask Series’, C#800073)
Nose: Prototypical Clynelish. Pure, chiseled and with a strong minerality. There’s chalk, wet pebbles and just a whisper of candle wax, but also hints of jasmine, lime peel and honeycomb. Finally a touch of Haribo Happy Peaches.
Taste: Pleasantly waxy mouthfeel with a sweet arrival. More candy-esque peaches, honey and a pinch of white pepper. There’s a sliver of pineapple too, with some touches of meringues and banana cream pie.
Finish: Medium length. Mineral notes with a slight leafy edge and some lemon pith.
Linkwood 2008 16 Years (58.7%, Signatory Vintage ‘Bourbon Cask Series’, C#800064)
Nose: A mixture of citrus fruits with bright apple notes (juice, peel, parts), yet also slivers of melted butter, brioche and agave nectar. Soft hints of rose petals and lychee, even a slightly grassy note. Wonderfully delicious.
Taste: Slightly buttery. Opening up on notes of dark caramel, Acacia honey and a pinch of pepper, as well as a touch of resin. Also a whisper of grapefruit and icing sugar, as well as sultanas and tangerines.
Finish: Medium length. Layers of citrus notes continue to unfold, but there’s a hint of lawn clipping as well.
Mortlach 2003 21 Years (58.3%, Signatory Vintage ‘Bourbon Cask Series’, C#800225)
Nose: A rather well-behaved Mortlach. My first impression certainly isn’t of a beastly whisky. Hints of ripe apple parts alongside processed sugar, pineapple and some lemon peel. Also subtle hints of chalk and maybe some elderflower. There’s a sliver of prosciutto di Parma, as well as just a touch of cotton candy and eucalyptus.
Taste: Yeah, it’s good. Hints of citrus (lemons and kumquats) and charred oak, as well slivers of pine needles and candied ginger. Cloudy apple juice too, accompanied by Spritzkuchen (like shortbread) and just a tinge of copper. Water brings out a delicate, hugely pleasant creaminess.
Finish: Medium. Gentle mineral hints, fudge and hints of hazelnut cream, as well as jammy apricots.
Samples provided by The Whisky Exchange
Linkwood also oops sadly.
Out of stock not oops!
The Linkwood is also out of stock sadly.