Old Pulteney 1997 (G&M for ALS-liga)

To raise awareness for ALS in Belgium, a cask of Old Pulteney 1997 was bottled for the fundraising organisation of Alain Verspecht, a whisky enthusiast who is suffering from the disease.

The first fill bourbon cask was provided by Gordon & MacPhail and distribution is done through two Belgian shop: The Bonding Dram and De Clercq & Zoon. Sister casks have been bottled for LMdW and The Whisky Castle by G&M in the past.

Old Pulteney 1997 (57%, Gordon & MacPhail for Alain Verspecht, first fill bourbon barrel #1199, 224 btl.)

Nose: starts in a fruity way that we don’t see too often in Old Pulteney (a certain pineapple / coconut combo, nice). A little vanilla as well. After that it becomes floral and very malty, which means the fruitiness doesn’t manage to stay in the front row. Typical coastal whiffs too. Hints of nutmeg and herbal tea. Mint.

Mouth: focuses on its fruity side again, nicely sweet pear and peach aromas. Some coconut oils. Then a wave of wood shavings and bitter oranges. Fades on coastal dryness.

Finish: medium long, with liquorice and slightly tangy oak.

Although it may not be perfectly balanced, I definitely prefer this kind of fresh bourbon cask (à la Pulteney 17yo) over the sherried officials. Around € 65 (including a complementary Glencairn) of which € 4 is donated to the ALS Liga. Click here to buy it online.

Score: 85/100