Single Malt Scotch Whisky 'Connoisseurs Choice Craigellachie' Gordon & MacPhail 1997 70 cl Astucciato

This fine distillate comes from the Speyside region and precisely from the still active Craigellachie distillery. Aging in ex-Bourbon oak barrels. Craigellachie Distillery was designed by Charles Doig and founded in 1891. Despite modern equipment, with a high-tech and efficient mash tun, the character of Craigellachie whiskey comes from the traditional brewing process, especially its worm tubs. No modern condensing units are used, just a large cold water tank filled with copper coils. This allows for less contact with the copper and produces a highly sought after whiskey with a waxy and oily character. The color is dark straw. When sniffed pure, it is light and fruity with notes of lemon and kiwi. Coconut and roasted malt emerge next. If diluted with water it is sweet and fruity, with aromas of pineapple, lemon and apricot jam. A slight hint of smoke and a hint of vanilla develops. On the palate, if tasted pure, we immediately have a spicy note that develops initially. Followed by flavors of raspberry and dark chocolate, with a lingering hint of tobacco. S diluted with water: initially spicy notes that leave room for elements of fresh fruit, grapefruit and peach. It is a medium-bodied whiskey with persistent fruity scents. Excellent.