This is the oldest Auchroisk ever released by the distillers, bottled from a mix of re-fill bourbon and European sherry casks, all filled in 1982. It’s part of the Diageo Special Releases of 2012. In 2010 there already was a 20 years old sister.
Auchroisk 30 yo 1982
(54,7%, OB 2012, 2976 btl.)
Auchroisk 30 yo 1982Nose: stewed fruits (apricots, yellow plums and mango) and lots of figs and dates. Some vanilla and orange peel. Quite sweet, but there’s a nice lemon / mint note to freshen it up. Nice honey and beeswax, as well as some dusty libraries! There’s also a spicy / grassy undertone and roasted nuts. Elegant and nicely old, with plenty of little nuances.
Mouth: suddenly much spicier (pepper, cloves, nutmeg) and drier with a hint of coffee powder. It shows quite an intense oaky side, leather and eucalyptus. Herbal tea and something burnt. Still some honey, vanilla and dried fruits to bring some roundness, but too little too late.
Finish: long, spicy and dry with some tannins and umami notes.
Not sure about this one. It certainly shows some of the nice, mature Speyside elements, but it also twists and turns and isn’t able to hide the heavy wood influence. Around € 240.
Score: 87/100