1998 A.D. Rattray Vintage Cask Collection Auchentoshan 25 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

A serious age statement from what is one of the few remaining Lowland distilleries and the only one practising triple distillation for its entire range. Auchentoshan has seen a huge growth in sales and popularity in the last decade, so no wonder it made it into this bottler's premium collection. Rattray's chairman, Tim Morrison, played a key role in the history of Auchentoshan through its purchase in 1984 by Stanley P. Morrison (latterly Morrison Bowmore Distillers). Subsequently acquired by Suntory, the Japanese influence on distillation is evident here in a deep, integrated bouquet that's also fresh, grassy and citric. Even after a quarter century in barrel, the aromatics remain surprisingly young and vibrant. The palate tells another story - nicely rounded, with a superbly creamy feel uncut, lingering with hints of dried grass and delicate malt... that bright citrus and cut grass note returns at the end, lifting the finish in a warming yet elegant fashion. Leaves you to wonder if it would ever have reached peak maturity! 164 bottles were filled from a single Bourbon hogshead. 56.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Brilliant ochre.  Nose: Tahitian vanilla, flaked almond and tangerine slice. Palate: Sweet orange marmalade, juicy mango and crystallised ginger. Finish: Green tea and cashew nut when the waves of tropical fruit subside.