2006 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Orkney 18 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Drawn from a refill ex-bourbon hogshead after more than 18 years, this unnamed Orkney displays a mineral-driven character, balanced by the gentle sweetness of stone fruits. Chimney soot and peat embers mingle with distant floral honey and lemon blossom, the latter beautifully accented after air contact. Not as sweet as the nose anticipates; the palate is paradoxically large-scaled yet delicate (no doubt partly due to the low-level peat), those gorgeous honeyed notes now leaning towards citrus blossom at the finish, remaining undiminished, even as the oak encroaches. A summery dram that departs from smokier official offerings. 288 bottles were filled at a strength of 58.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Golden honey. Nose: Pine smoked mussel, sugared almond and honey pastry. Palate: Poached nectarine, wild bramble and candied pecan. Finish: Supreme balance, with underlying heathery ash and a pinch of salt.