The mythical Caperdonich 1972’s have now passed the 40 years mark. Given the rarity of this dram, The Whiskyman felt the need to create a new premium “black label”, which will only be used if a stunning opportunity comes by.
This first black label bottling is released together with QV.ID, celebrating the third anniversary of this drinks retailer, so you know where to find it if you want one sold out already, sorry!
Caperdonich 40 yo 1972 (49%, The Whiskyman & QV.ID, black label, 65 btl.)
Caperdonich 40 yo 1972 (49%, The Whiskyman & QV.ID, black label, 65 btl.)Nose: rich and polished. Lots of sweet, juicy fruits: peaches, fresh figs, grapes, tangerines, yellow apples, as well as some dried fruits like apricots. Thick honey and wax. Very subtle nutty notes too. Very little plain oak, just a little more mint and eucalyptus at first, I’d say, but this only adds to the fresh appeal of course and it keeps growing warmer over time. Quite brilliant.
Mouth: sweet, still fruity but also showing a spicy tingle. A mix of jams and honeys. Apricots, yellow plums, figs, oranges… On the palate the oak is a little louder, with some pencil shavings, pepper, ginger and a punchy herbalness. Mint again, some liquorice. Luckily enough fruits to balance it out nicely.
Finish: a nice aftertaste on sultanas and honey alongside the dry oak. Long enough.
You all know I’m a fan of Caperdonich 1972, but lately I’ve become a little worried about the stock that’s left. They’re all smaller (re-racked) casks, and that means more oak. If a trusted bottler like The Whiskyman chooses this one, that can only mean the others are probably over the top (or they will be very soon). Moreover, with a 4 in front of the age, prices are suddenly sky-rocketing… (this one is priced € 300). The contradictory world of whisky. This is a lovely Caperdonich but it will also be the last one I’m going to buy.
Score: 92/100