Craigellachie 20 Year Old 1991 A.D. Rattray

For the third Craigellachie, let me seek out A.D. Rattray (formerly known as Dewar Rattray). This one matured for 20 years on a first fill bourbon cask and was bottled at very high strength. Where is my water?

Hmm, this nose is very good. Very mineraly and floral. I get both wet rocks and a bouquet of wild flowers and heather. Then a lot of fruit and not just the typical European white fruit (apples, pears). This even shows some tropical fruit. Think apricots and peach. But also mirabelles. The whole is gently spiced. This is by far the best nose I have had on a Craigellachie so far. With water, the fruit is pushed away somewhat, emphasizing the flowers and vanilla some more.

It is oily ande very powerful indeed. Honeysweet on the fruit from the nose and a good helping of white pepper, ginger and some woodspice. Honey and apples come to the fore. Not very complex, but very good. It loses a bit of punch with water, but remains fruity throughout. As an added bonus, a little bitter touch gives it a nice balance.

The finish is long, warm and very fruity. There is even a touch of salt at the death.

It can take water, but is quite quaffable without. I am not yet sure which I prefer. But anyhow and wonderful Craigellachie.

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