Aberlour a’bunadh (batch #50)

Not so long ago we reviewed Aberlour a’bunadh Batch 49 and today we place it against the latest Batch 50.

Aberlour a’bunadh (59,6%, OB 2014, Oloroso sherry butts, batch n°50)

Nose: thick sherry, dried figs and dates, sultanas. Maybe just a tad more closed than batch #49, with seemingly a bit more oaky touches and less freshness. Waxed oak. Water opens it up a little. Chocolate and leather as well as some Seville oranges.

Mouth: very big again – hot and flavoursome. Hints of cherries, rapsberry jam, nuts and nougat. Then dark caramel and coffee. Again a bit more oak and spices than previous editions? Ginger and dark chocolate.

Finish: long, still quite hot and boasting a whole spice cabinet.

In a direct comparison, this one comes out a little rougher and oakier / spicier than #49, which also means less aromatic fruits. Still a very reliable, deeply sherried dram though. Around € 50 to € 65.

Score: 86/100