Here’s another bottling exclusive to Whiskysite.nl: an Arran 1996 single sherry cask. Although this was bottled early March and sold out soon, some bottles have been kept aside for the Whisky in Leiden festival. You’ll be able to try it there and buy the remaining bottles.
Arran 19 yo 1996 ‘The Chosen One’ (54,7%, OB for Whiskysite.nl 2016, sherry hogshead #1390, 312 btl.)
Nose: oh yes, very nice fruity notes, halfway between apricot jam and strawberry candy. Hints of kirsch and lemon liqueur. A little mead and gooseberry pie with vanilla custard at the bottom. Honey and beehive notes. Sweet, fruity, with plenty of barley freshness.
Mouth: same deep fruitiness (oranges, sweet lemons) and honeyed notes, this time also with a slight bitterness (pink grapefruit) and a light coastal side. Liquorice. Some oak, pepper and ginger too.
Finish: still hints of lemonade, with a light fizzy touch.
Great stuff. A crackingly warm, fruity profile on the nose, with a bit more oaky punch on the palate. Don’t miss this at the festival. And well done, guys. Some bottles left for around € 100.
Score: 89/100