Aberlour A'bunadh Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 081

Aberlour’s cask strength A’bunadh has long been a darling of single malt aficionados, released in batches and now onto #081 (overseas may have even more recent bottlings). Each varies in proof and flavour as proportions of older or younger material make the cut, but the brief remains the same: Make a 100% ex-oloroso sherry aged malt using the inventory at hand (anywhere from 5 to 25 years old). Keep it natural, which means zero chill filtration, keep it balanced and keep it affordable. No information about the number of bottles from each batch of A’bunadh is offered, but they're large outturns for a global community, which makes for a significant blending challenge. That hasn't stopped collectors and fans of sherried malts from stocking up on those that are deemed better than others. With or without water, whichever way you like it, A'bunadh is worth checking out as you encounter it, at least so long as value remains Pernod-Ricard's priority. 61.6% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Notes from the producers... Aromas of Spiced orange, dark bitter chocolate on the palate harmonising with rich, deep notes of Oloroso Sherry. On the palate, orange, black cherries, dried fruit and ginger spiked with dark bitter chocolate and enriched with Sherry and Oak. Full bodied and creamy. Long and luscious. The sweetness of the red fruit lingers and is eventually replaced by a bitter sweet chocolate, spice and oak. A little water opens up the whisky and reveals more of the fruitier side of the profile, but at the cost of that rich, chewy mouth feel.