This Secret Speyside whisky is exclusive to Kirsch Import. It comes from the Berry Bros & Rudd warehouses. Theoretically this could be from Glenrothes, given the historic link between Berry Bros and the distillery. But we can’t be sure. In any case it rested in an ex-sherry butt the entire time.
Secret Speyside 2007 (62,8%, Berry Bros. & Rudd for Kirsch Import 2022, sherry butt #13910, 612 btl.)
Nose: a classic style of sherry full of hazelnuts, brioche and café latte. Also earthy hints, fresh breads and subtle nutmeg. Then nice stewed (straw)berries in the background, with treacle and a dusty spice drawer. There’s a hint of wet wood as well. Fairly complex and well balanced. Beautiful.
Mouth: quite spicy now. I’m getting some black pepper and nutmeg, alongside liquorice and roasted nuts. Charred notes. A light bitterness sets in, balanced by a caramel sweetness. Then sweetened tea and lots of herbal notes. Becomes a tad dry and woody in the end (European oak), with a firm leathery side and hints of tobacco.
Finish: long and dry, on dried fruits, hints of tobacco and wood spice.
Great nose, with the typical European oak assertiveness on the palate. Overall a good, autumnal dram that reminds me of the Glenrothes style indeed, although sister distilleries Tamdhu and Macallan also occured to me. Available in Germany for around € 100. Good value for money, in my opinion.