The October 2012 tasting theme was…Independent Bottlers.
First, a word about Independent Bottlers. These companies buy, and bottle, whiskies from established distilleries. The distilleries sell their whisky to the bottlers for several reasons. Among those reasons, and possible the most common reasons, are: 1) It is a way for the distillery to make money, and 2) The distillery may pass on barrels of whisky that, after aging, are not consistent with a flavor they are trying to achieve.
Our group tasted five different whiskies (from three different bottlers) and ranked them with a “1” being the top choice and a “5” being the least favorite. Here are our results along with several notes by our 24 tasters:
5) Dewar Rattray: Auchentoshen, 20 year old Cask Strength
Auchentoshen is a favorite distiller for a number of our tasters however this presentation fell far short of the mark. Notes: Aggressive, Just okay, Metallic, Spicy, Reminiscent of moonshine, Good aroma but lacks taste, Paint thinner.
4) Signatory Vintage: 1997 Isle of Jura, 10 year old
Notes: Dry, Rough, Bitter, Nothing exceptional, Salty scent, Oily, Short finish, Light, Creamy, Good woody flavor.
3) Signatory Vintage: 1994 Caperdonich, 16 year old Cask Strength
Notes: Malty, Sweet, Nose of vanilla, Floral nose, Fruity taste, Slightly bitter finish, Good finish, Buttery nose with smooth finish.
2) Signatory Vintage: 1991 Highland Park, 20 year old
Notes: Lightly peaty, Full flavor, Good sherry finish, Smooth, Bold, Nutty.
AND THE WINNER IS…
1) Duncan Taylor: Ben Nevis, 12 year old
Notes: Sweet, Spicy, Carmel flavor, Creamy finish, Bright taste, Easy to drink, Pleasant aftertaste.