Aberlour A'bunadh Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 075

For anyone who thinks all the best batches from this label were done and dusted years ago, tasting #74 & #75 may change your perspective. Weighing in at just 0.9% higher alcohol than Batch 074, expectations would be for the two releases to be fairly similar - and at first taste, they are. But as with all sherry matured malts, especially when they're cask strength, time and air contact play a role. Batch 075 is in classic sherried form. There is solid Oloroso input, as evidenced by some delicious prune and dried apricot notes infusing the malty profile, especially after the addition of water which adds lifted baking spice and more fruit cake character. And as with any A'bunadh, the finish is bold, tactile, heartwarming, creamy, then long on the aftertaste with hints of leather and orange fondants. A'bunadh is never primarily aiming for a 'balanced' style - it's more about sheer power and sherry - but Batch 075 comes pretty close to satisfying all the criteria for great cask strength whisky - which is rare. The impressive depth and integration also suggests older liquid has made its way into this batch. Stock up! 60.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.