1993 Gordon & Macphail Connoisseurs Choice Aberfeldy 24 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Look at the colour on this beautiful old Aberfeldy! 100% matured in a first fill Sherry puncheon, which is unusual for this distillery. Otherwise reserved for the Dewars family of blended whiskies, Aberfeldy is now officially released in limited quantities in 12, 16, 18 and 21 year old expressions. However, this is the first independent bottling and the first cask strength Aberfeldy to ever hit our shelves! It's also the oldest. Another intriguing selection from G&M... 586 bottles produced.

Other reviews... Nose: A rounded and rich mix of cooked agave, Manuka honey, a touch of pecan pie and blackcurrant. It then moves towards cherry cake and herbal tea, with a tiny touch of sandalwood and vetiver suggesting age. Water brings out more of the mature, honeyed character, some varnish and a little of the often elusive Aberfeldy waxiness. Palate: The mature elements are more overt here, alongside a heathery and sage-scented quality with violet chocolate. Though drier and oakier than the nose suggests, the sweet, honeycomb waxiness gives balance. Water adds in some sultana and more of the scented wood, but doesn’t affect the great length. Firm, yet elegant. Here is Aberfeldy at peak maturity. 90 points Dave Broom, scotchwhisky.com

Notes from the bottlers... Aroma: Bold yet subtle: Sherry and sweet vanilla combine with dark chocolate. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves develop and open into subtle and delicate floral notes. Taste: Full-bodied and creamy with hints of freshly cracked black pepper. Dark chocolate, and walnut notes are balanced by sweet brown sugar and juicy fruit undertones. Finish: Sweet, long, and lingering with candied cherry and charred oak highlights. 58.7% Alc./Vol.