Glenallachie 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 7

Now on global allocation with numbers lowering with every outturn. 

The very first bottling of The Glenallachie 10 year old cask strength happened by chance. In 2017, whilst reviewing parcels of stock from 2007 and 2008, Master Distiller Billy Walker was so delighted by the balance and depth of the samples that he immediately decided to add a younger expression to the core range. The Fourth Batch was awarded ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards 2021, so the bar has been set high as they introduce this the seventh release. Batch 7 is a combination of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry puncheons along with a small quantity of Virgin Oak and Rioja casks. The resulting whisky bursts with indulgent notes of of ripe plums, dark chocolate and sticky raisins, all coupled with classic Glenallachie honeyed charm. Walker – who this year celebrates reaching an astonishing half-century as a blender in the Scotch Whisky industry comments, “From the outset, our defined objective has been to achieve a bold and flavorful yet balanced spirit, predominantly matured in Sherry wood, but with interesting twists introduced by unusual cask types. This latest batch is a complex and enjoyable drinking experience which brings together spirit from some truly exceptional Sherry, wine and virgin oak casks. I must say, this one is pretty special!” 56.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered and natural colour.

Notes from the producers... COLOUR: Rich Mahogany. NOSE: Waves of heather honey, dried fruit, cinnamon and nutmeg, followed by orange peel, mocha and treacle. TASTE: Lashings of dark chocolate, figs and heather honey, with raisins, cinnamon, plums and hints of orange zest.

Other reviews... The aroma is perhaps not as bold as the first release, but there’s still a healthy amount of alcohol to accompany notes of rich, silky nougatine, baking cocoa, and sweet porridge. The cask aging comes through more prominently with currants, black cherry, and dark berries adding considerably more complexity than our first experience. On the palate, this whisky is surprisingly approachable for cask strength, offering up a well-balanced blend of sweet dark fruit and earthy malts. The fruit component runs the gamut here from bright, juicy plums to raisins and more sultry compotes and pie filling. Despite that complexity it’s not a dominating element of the experience, mingling well with honeyed malts, barrel char, and some baking spice, all coalescing into a remarkably gentle and warming finish to create an altogether enjoyable and engaging whisky. - drinkhacker.com