Aberlour 16 Year Old Double Cask Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

A further addition to this very successful stable of malts, the sixteen year old has received high praise worldwide, continuing along the path of popularity carved out by its younger siblings. A very low peat spec is combined with maturation in top quality ex-sherry casks as well as traditional ex-bourbon casks. This echoes the flavours of the 12 year old but adds deeper dried fruit notes - it's also a sherried Speysider offering more delicacy and finesse than most. Just as the label suggests, what you get is an attractive mix of x Bourbon and Sherry on the nose, though probably more of the latter; Vanilla, honey, plum and dried apricot, with 3-4 minutes air contact deepening the bouquet, conjuring scents of dried flowers, raisins and pepper. Light & breezy with a moderate burst of dried fruits, orange zest and vanilla building towards a crisp finish, then spicier through the aftertaste, the sense of lightness and elegance makes for an alternative Speyside style, and a perfect 'house' malt. 40% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... More subtle and complex than the new 12 year old, and not as sweet. Creamy in texture and floral on the nose, with dried vanilla, gentle spice, nectarine, kiwi, plum, and lemon gum drops. Soft, elegant finish with a hint of mint. Great balance of a variety of flavors and lots of finesse. A well-crafted whisky! 90 points- whiskyadvocate.com

...Golden amber color. Aromas and flavors of dates and apple cinnamon pastry, ripe pear slices on a walnut and arugula salad tossed in a honey and balsamic vinaigrette, toasted almond, and chai tea with a round, crisp, dry medium body and a warming, compelling, medium-long finish evoking notes of raisins, toasted almonds and pecan, and fresh cut grass. A classic, lovely Whisky with excellent Sherry cask influence; serve with poached salmon topped with honeyed walnuts and some green apple for acidity. 94 points - Exceptional - tastings.com

None of the dreaded S word here, so well done sherry butts. But this is underpowered in this day and age for the kind of malt it could be... 88 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023

Gold - Single Malt Scotch - 13 to 19 Yrs - 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Gold - 2017 International Wine & Spirit Competition