Arran 25 Years | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Isle of Arran, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured in 35% ex-sherry casks and 65% ex-bourbon casks, with a finishing period in first fill and refill sherry hogsheads.
Age Statement: 25 years old, containing whiskies all from the first year of production in 1995.
Color and Clarity: Uncolored, unchill filtered, allowing the natural color to shine through.
Bottle Design: Standard Arran bottle with a very small label, emphasizing visibility of the whisky. Packaged in a high-quality hardwood box, likely oak, indicating a premium product.

Nose: Sherry, figs, sultanas, black cherries, oakiness, spiciness (notably nutmeg), presenting a rich and intense aroma.
Palate: Begins with spiciness, transitioning to orange peel and zest, roasted almonds, tangerines, apricot, and lighter fruitiness. Background notes include peppery spices, dark chocolate, nuttiness (hazelnut, walnut), and dark fruitiness.
Balance of Flavors: Offers a complex and layered flavor profile, balancing between spicy, fruity, and nutty notes, with a significant influence from both sherry and bourbon casks.

Distillery Foundation: Arran Distillery was founded in 1995, with 1996 marking its first year of production. This 25-year-old whisky celebrates the distillery's early days by incorporating whiskies from its inaugural year.
Packaging: The premium hardwood box signifies the special nature of this anniversary release, adding a tactile dimension to the whisky's presentation.

Isle of Arran: The distillery's location on the Isle of Arran, a place with a rich history in whisky production, adds to the whisky's identity. The evolution from "Isle of Arran" to "Arran" reflects a modern branding approach while honoring its roots.

Horst Luening, the senior taster, expresses surprise and admiration for the intensity and complexity of the Arran 25, highlighting its ability to deliver a "massive, extreme" flavor profile that stands out even among other 25-year-old whiskies.

Arran 25 Years Old is a premium single malt Scotch whisky from the Isle of Arran, matured in a mix of ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks with a sherry cask finish.
It offers a complex flavor profile with a rich balance of spicy, fruity, and nutty notes.
The whisky celebrates the distillery's early production years, incorporating whiskies from 1995.
Packaged in a high-quality hardwood box, it represents a special anniversary release.
Praised for its intensity and complexity, it stands as a testament to Arran's distilling prowess.

Whisky Collectors: Given its significance as the first 25-year-old release from Arran and its premium packaging, it's a must-have for collectors.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a palate for aged, complex single malts will appreciate the depth and range of flavors.
Fans of Sherry-Finished Whiskies: Individuals who enjoy the influence of sherry cask maturation will find the flavor profile appealing.
Special Occasion Sippers: Given its price point and rarity, it's ideal for marking significant milestones or celebrations.