In November I tried a nicely sherried Lindores whisky in the blind tasting competition. At just three years old, it had a very rich character. Now the well-known retailer Abbey Whisky presents an exclusive bottling that looks quite similar.
This Lindores single cask is an Oloroso sherry butt filled in 2018.
Lindores 4 yo 2018 (59,5%, OB for Abbey Whisky 2022, Oloroso sherry butt #180591, 624 btl.)
Nose: there’s the expected dark fruitiness at first. Blackberries, cherry jam and raspberries. Stewed plums, molasses and marmalade. Hints of apple peelings, toffee and cinnamon syrup. A light woody dustiness, as well as a nutty base and an umami touch (hoisin, meaty hints) in the background. Then a mentholy and slightly balsamic top note which adds a volatile character.
Mouth: quite punchy and robust, with a bit of alcohol coming through. First forest fruits, prune juice and walnuts, alongside baking spice like nutmeg, cinnamon and black pepper. Then hints of tobacco and liquorice. It feels a little bloated at times but there’s still this herbal / volatile note lifting it up. Also fruit tea and hints of coffee beans.
Finish: quite long, on chocolate coated raisins, mocha and wood spice.
A very powerful and entertaining Lindores single malt. The combination of dark aromas and this volatile edge makes the range of flavours quite ample. Overall slightly pressure-cooked but an interesting sherry bomb considering the age. Exclusively available from Abbey Whisky.