Whisky Review/Tasting: An Cnoc Flaughter

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The An Cnoc Flaughter is a single malt whisky, though the specific region is not mentioned, it's implied to have a connection with Islay due to the peat digging anecdote.
Type: Single Malt Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Details on distillation and maturation are not provided, but the whisky is noted for its peaty character, suggesting a significant influence of peat in its production.
Age Statement: The whisky might be relatively young as indicated by a slight metallic note, though no specific age is mentioned.
Appearance: The whisky is described as pale gold in color, uncolored, and non-chill filtered, maintaining a natural appearance. The bottle and tube feature a spade symbol, specifically the Flaughter spade, for easy identification.

Balance of Flavors: The An Cnoc Flaughter is noted for its well-balanced profile, where neither the smokiness nor the fruitiness dominates.
Unique Characteristics: It has a peatiness level of 14.8 ppm, which contributes to its smoky and ashy nose, with underlying notes of vanilla, toffee, and a medicinal overtone. The taste is peaty, intense yet smooth, with hints of pipe tobacco, orchid fruits, brown sugar sweetness, and a smoky, smooth finish.
Comparison: Compared to another whisky in its range, the Rutter, the Flaughter is described as more medicinal and less bonfire-like, with a more pronounced sweetness and fruitiness.

Anecdote: Horst Luening shares a personal anecdote of digging peat on Islay, linking the process of using different tools for peat extraction to the whisky's character. This story adds a personal touch and connects the whisky to traditional practices.

The Flaughter spade, used to remove the top layer of peat, is central to the whisky's story, highlighting the traditional methods of peat extraction and its impact on flavor. This tool's use underscores the cultural practices in whisky production.

Horst Luening describes the whisky as "wonderful aromatic, well balanced to the fruitiness," and appreciates the balance between distillery character and peatiness, which is not always easy to achieve.
He notes, "It's one of the very few single malt whiskies where the distillery character and the peatiness are well balanced."

An Cnoc Flaughter is a peated single malt whisky with a pale gold color, featuring a balanced profile of smokiness and fruitiness.
It has a peatiness level of 14.8 ppm, contributing to its unique flavor profile of smoky, ashy notes with vanilla, toffee, and a medicinal overtone.
The whisky might be relatively young, indicated by a slight metallic note.
Cultural significance is tied to the Flaughter spade, a traditional tool for peat extraction, emphasizing the traditional aspects of whisky production.
Expert opinions highlight the whisky's well-balanced character between smokiness and fruitiness, making it a standout offering.

Peat Enthusiasts: Those who enjoy a peaty profile but seek a balance with fruitiness and sweetness will find the Flaughter appealing.
Whisky Adventurers: Individuals interested in exploring whiskies with unique production stories or traditional practices will appreciate the Flaughter's background.
Beginners to Peated Whisky: The balanced nature of the Flaughter makes it a suitable introduction for those new to peated whiskies, offering a gateway to more intense flavors.