2004 Hidden Spirits Balmenach 13 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Not currently bottled by its present custodians, Balmenach rarely finds its way into independent releases such as this from the Italian based, 'Hidden Spirits'. This one's from an x Bourbon cask.

Tasting note: [20ml sample] Bright gold. Thick and deliciously fruity openings including aromas of pineapple and poached pear, settling into cream sponge, vanilla and fruit flavoured bubble gum. Impressive, juicy, ripe fruit attack – especially cantaloupe as well as hints of dried coconut, almond, cinnamon, pear and honey through the finish. What it might lack in complexity it makes up with other charms. 51% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Situated in the district of Cromdale on the banks of the River Spey, the Balmenach distillery stands beneath the nearby hill of Tom Lethendry where the Jacobites were defeated in the Battle of Cromdale in 1690. It is one of the earliest distilleries sanctioned as a result of the Excise Act 1823. Presently owned by Inver House Distillers, unpeated malt is sourced from independent maltsters with maturation taking place mainly in refill US hogsheads and some Spanish oak.