Blair Athol 2019 Distillery Exclusive (48%, OB, 6000 Bottles, 2019)

• ABV: 48%
• Age: NAS
• Bottling: OB, Diageo
• Category: Highland single malt scotch whisky
• Cost: £90
• Origin: Blair Athol distillery
• Vintage: Undeclared

What they say

See press release here:

Blair Athol launches limited edition distillery exclusive bottling for 2019

Official tasting notes:

On the nose, there is an initial fragrance of vibrant green orchard fruits with baking spices including nutmeg and allspice, accompanied by a sweetness from combined vanilla, brown sugars, liquorice and toffee flavours. On the palate, there is a smooth vanilla creaminess allied with notes of red apple, dried fruit and toasted nuts. The sweet characters linger, extending the finish. With a few drops of water, the fruity aromas become greener and the woody notes more pronounced, swiftly followed by the distinct hints of vanilla, toffee and a gentle touch of pepper that leaves a delicate but fresh finish.

What I say

The 2019 distillery exclusive bottling for Blair Athol distillery in Pitlochry in the Highlands. Matured in refill, rejuvenated and American Oak ex-bourbon casks this is presented at 48% with no age statement or vintage. Limited run of 6000 bottles.

This post was sponsored by Diageo by provision of a sample of this product.

My tasting notes:

• Appearance: Amber gold (9/20), numerous, medium-sized tears and tapered legs.
• Nose: Sweet caramelised sugars, butterscotch, highland toffee, raisin, toasted oak wood, dry leather, hints of bubblegum and cinnamon schnapps, red berries and milk chocolate.
• Taste: Warming, spiced, toasted oak and fruits, brambles treacle, red fruits, toffee, raisin, dark chocolate, clove, mint, all-spice, quite earthy, medium-full bodied.
• Finish: Long, dark fruits, brambles and otasted oak.

Overall

A very flavour-full expression, I was convinced there was some ex-sherry cask usage in here but perhaps not? A very earthy and fruity spirit mixed with dry leather and toasted American oak

Score 83/100

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