Whisky Review/Tasting: An Cnoc 2000

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The An Cnoc 2000 is produced at the Knockdhu Distillery, established in 1894 alongside the railway in Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: This whisky is a blend of spirits aged in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks.
Age Statement: Bottled in 2014, making it approximately 14 years old.
Color and Bottle Design: Described as having a "bronzed honey with rich amber highlights" color, which is natural and uncolored. The bottle design specifics were not detailed, but it's noted that the product is non-chill filtered and presented at 46% ABV.

Nose: Features oriental spices, toasted vanilla, cocoa beans, lemongrass, orange peel, and fragrant cut flowers.
Taste: Offers a smooth creamy vanilla, spicy sherry notes, praline, and lively citrus, leading to a long balanced finish with a hint of wood smoke. The flavor is described as spicy and oriental, with a peppery curry spice intensity and a transition from juicy orange to drier citrus or lemongrass notes in the aftertaste.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky is noted for its intense spiciness and the use of European oak sherry casks, which contribute to its tannin content and spiciness. The cocoa bean aftertaste is slightly bitter, adding to its complexity.

The Knockdhu Distillery's establishment in 1894, coinciding with the construction of the railway through Scotland, is highlighted as a significant historical point.
The An Cnoc 2000 is part of a series of vintages, with previous releases in 1996 and 1998, suggesting a tradition of biennial releases.
The limited availability of this bottling is emphasized, making it a sought-after item for collectors and enthusiasts.

The Knockdhu Distillery's location and history are tied to the development of the railway in Scotland, indicating the importance of transportation and infrastructure in the expansion of the whisky industry.

Horst Luening describes the An Cnoc 2000 as a "roller coaster ride" in terms of its flavor profile, highlighting the unexpected intensity of spiciness that contrasts with its aromatic nose.
The whisky is highly recommended by Luening, who appreciates its complexity and the blend of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks.

An Cnoc 2000 is a 14-year-old single malt Scotch whisky from the Knockdhu Distillery, matured in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks.
It features a complex flavor profile with oriental spices, creamy vanilla, spicy sherry notes, and a hint of wood smoke.
The whisky is noted for its intense spiciness and the use of European oak sherry casks, adding depth and complexity.
Limited availability makes it a collectible item, with a history tied to the Knockdhu Distillery and the development of the railway in Scotland.
Highly recommended by Horst Luening for its unique and intense flavor profile.

Whisky Collectors: Given its limited availability and part of a vintage series, collectors would find this bottling particularly appealing.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a palate for complex, spicy, and intensely flavored whiskies would enjoy the An Cnoc 2000.
Fans of Sherry Cask Whiskies: Individuals who appreciate the depth and spiciness that sherry casks contribute to whisky might find this bottling especially intriguing.