Fettercairn 16 Year Old was introduced in 2020 as an annual series which showcases different maturation journeys. Two weeks ago the second release was announced. This is a combination of first fill + refill Oloroso and first fill aged Palo Cortado sherry butts (ex-solera then?) from a small, family-run bodega in Jerez.
Fettercairn 16 yo (46,4%, OB 2021, 2nd release, Oloroso + Palo Cortado sherry casks)
Nose: a fruity and fairly modern (wood-driven) sherry character. There’s stewed peach, banana, marmalade and honey as well as some golden raisins. With a drop of water some mango appears, as well as almonds and vanilla. A whiff of cedar wood in the background.
Mouth: quite a malty core, less fruity than the nose suggested. There’s apricot and lemon zest on one side but bigger nutty / spicy notes on the other side. Walnuts, nutmeg and liquorice. Ginger biscuits. Subtle bitter notes (wood, dark chocolate and espresso) with a very light salty edge.
Finish: medium, on ginger heat and salted caramel. More walnuts, nutmeg and cold coffee.
Decent. A very drinkable Fettercairn with a gentle, modern sherry influence. Another proof that they’re working hard to improve the fame of this distillery, even though it’s certainly not an absolute must-have either. Arriving across Europe as we speak and extending to travel retail and Asian markets into 2022. Already available from Master of Malt and a bit cheaper from The Whisky Exchange.