Whisky Review/Tasting: Arran Machrie Moor Cask Strength

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Isle of Arran, West Coast of Scotland.
Type: Peated Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: The whisky is cask strength, indicating it has not been diluted after maturation. The high ABV (58.2%) suggests it is relatively young, as the alcohol level has not significantly reduced through aging.
Age Statement: No specific age mentioned, but implied to be young.
Color & Clarity: Not explicitly described in the transcript.
Bottle Design: Features an illustration of a big dog and a whisky cask chained to a stone, reflecting the legend associated with Machrie Moor.

Peating Level: 20 ppm, which is moderate, making it less intensely peated compared to whiskies with higher ppm levels.
Balance of Flavors: Described as complex for a young whisky, with a decent smoky note that adds to its complexity without overpowering other flavors.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky presents a blend of light smokiness, citrus notes, exotic fruit, and vanilla. Upon dilution and tasting, it reveals young fruit flavors like pears, apples, and possibly pineapple, combined with vanilla, sweet berries, a hint of maritime spiciness, and a smoky overlay.

Legend of Machrie Moor: The name and label story is inspired by a mystical peat bog on the Isle of Arran, known for its stone circles and the legend of Fingal's Cauldron Seat, where the warrior giant Fingal is said to have tethered his dog, Bran. This narrative adds a mythical dimension to the whisky.

Isle of Arran: The whisky embodies the rugged beauty and lore of its island origin, with the Machrie Moor itself playing a central role in the whisky's identity and storytelling.

Horst Luening, the mastertaster, appreciates the whisky's complexity and balance, especially noting its moderate peat level and the presence of diverse, vibrant fruit flavors alongside the smokiness. He recommends the whisky and reassures that it will be regularly available, not just as a limited edition.

Arran Machrie Moor Cask Strength is a moderately peated single malt from the Isle of Arran, characterized by its young, complex flavor profile with smoky, fruity, and vanilla notes.
The whisky's story is deeply tied to the Isle of Arran's Machrie Moor, with legends and local lore adding depth to its identity.
Recommended for those who appreciate a balanced peat presence and a rich tapestry of flavors in their whisky.

Peat Enthusiasts Looking for Balance: Ideal for whisky drinkers who enjoy peated expressions but prefer a balance that allows other flavors to shine through.
Whisky Collectors: The story and limited edition nature of the releases make it appealing for collectors interested in unique narratives and island whiskies.
New Whisky Explorers: Its complexity, combined with the moderate peat level, makes it a suitable choice for those new to peated whiskies and looking to explore different flavor profiles without being overwhelmed.