At this very same moment I’m visiting Pulteney distillery in the very north of Scotland. I hope to find some time and an internet connection to post my report in the next couple of days.
Back in 2008, this Old Pulteney 23 years old was a limited edition for the World Duty Free market. There were two versions, one matured in ex-bourbon casks and the other fully matured in ex-sherry casks. It was one of the first efforts to put Old Pulteney on the map of single malt whisky through single casks and limited releases.
Old Pulteney 23 yo ‘Sherry casks’
(43%, OB 2008)
Old Pulteney 23 yo ‘Sherry casks’Nose: a broad array of fruity flavours. Starts on gooseberries and green apples but goes on with fragrant raspberry and lime. Almonds and vanilla, a little uncommon for sherry maturation. Undertones of leather and soft spices. In the background there’s also the typical Pulteney coastal note and a delicious waxy veil. Very fresh, with very delicate sherry and lots of juicy fruits.
Mouth: quite fruity again (yellow raisins) although there’s a bigger dryness to it as well. Apple seeds. Ginger and cardamom. A tad floral. Some briney notes. Even a hint of peat?
Finish: quite long, spicy and oaky. Fairly dry again, like a Fino.
Nice balance of Fino dryness and fruity freshness. Maybe not the most typical Old Pulteney nor the most typical sherry bottling, but a great result, no doubt. Around € 180.
Score: 89/100