The Craigellachie 2015 9 Years is the second in a trio of charity releases by Dram4Charity, this wonderful Caol Ila being the first. The charity is run by Belgian whisky enthusiasts and all proceeds will go towards the ALS Foundation Alain Verspecht.
I’m writing this prelude as I’m attending the Spirit of Speyside festivities, meaning I’m actually not that far from Craigellachie distillery. I’m currently in the Dowan’s in Aberlour waiting for a tasting to start, so the namesake distillery is obviously closer, but Craigellachie is only about 5 minutes away nonetheless.
Craigellachie makes a quality albeit somewhat tricky spirit. The distillery is well-known for producing a sulphurous spirit due to a specific malting process and a production process aimed at preserving some of those compounds (i.e. the use of worm tubs). The sulphur dissipates during maturation but the whisky retains a rather robust, sometimes meaty character.
The Craigellachie 2015 9 Years by Dram4Charity is on the younger side, so it’s not a given the sulphurous compounds will have been integrated completely. The whisky was finished in a Port cask and will be available through the charity’s website.
Craigellachie 2015 9 Years (55.2%, Dram4Charity, 60 bts.)
Nose: No denying an ex-Port cask was used. It sort of fights with the sulphury nature of Craigellachie’s spirit character. Hints of metal polish and cabbage, as well as underripe brambles, raspberries and forest fruits. A light touch of wheat beer and marshmallow as well.
Taste: A decently pleasant mouthfeel (slightly oily). Very peppery, yet thankfully the sulphury elements are subdued. A sliver of vanilla pods alongside a slight effervescent note of red berries. Also some brass and touches of roasted peanut skins.
Finish: Medium length. The peppery spices linger, hints of walnuts and just a slight sulphur note.
Sample provided by Dram4Charity
