Since 2003 Glencadam distillery has been owned by Angus Dundee Distillers Plc who also launched the first single malt expression in 2005. Glencadam Origin 1825 was released in 2016 as their first NAS expression.
It is matured in American white oak bourbon casks and finished in Oloroso sherry butts.
Glencadam Origin 1825
(40%, OB +/- 2017)
Nose: rather synthetic banana ice cream, oatcakes and whiffs of glue and turpentine. Not as bad as it sounds. Fresh oak shavings. Evolves towards tinned pineapple and coconut flakes. Tuttifrutti candy. Light floral notes, hints of citrus.
Mouth: far less exciting. Still youngish banana notes and pear drops, but pretty much washed down. Also some oak juices but again quite weak. Vanilla and light peppery oak. Hints of custard.
Finish: medium long, on creamy malt and peppery oak.
As an entry-level malt I think it stands out (a little) on the nose, but this positive vibe was pretty much crushed on the palate, with a weak and rather bland profile. Origin 1825 is not a bad idea if you’re mostly drinking blends, but nothing really exciting either. Cheap: just € 30 from Master of Malt or TWE.
Score: 79/100