Whisky Review/Tasting: Aultmore 2005/2016

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Aultmore Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation Date: September 12th, 2005.
Bottling Date: May 2016, making it approximately 10 and a half years old.
Maturation Process: Matured in a refill bourbon cask.
Age Statement: 10.5 years.
Color: Pale straw.
Clarity: Unchill filtered, natural color.
Bottle Design: Specific design details not mentioned, but it is a single cask release by Gardener McPhail, indicating a unique and limited edition.

Balance of Flavors: A harmonious blend of tropical fruits, vanilla, and a hint of milk chocolate, with a smooth finish that includes a menthol edge.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky showcases a notable tropical fruit presence, particularly pineapple, and a green apple note that becomes more pronounced upon dilution.
Comparison: While specific comparisons to other whiskies are not made, the unique single cask nature and the flavor profile suggest it stands out among typical offerings from Aultmore or Gardener McPhail.

Anecdotes: Aultmore distillery's history of selling whisky in bulk to the blending industry before offering casks to independent bottlers is highlighted, marking a significant shift in its market presence.
Trivia: The rarity of this single cask release, with only 230 bottles available, is emphasized, making it a unique find for collectors or enthusiasts.

The use of bourbon casks from the US and the specific aging process in Scotland reflect the transatlantic influence on Scotch whisky production, showcasing the global connections within the whisky industry.

Opinions: Horst Luening, the mastertaster, appreciates the whisky's complexity and the ability to dilute it due to its high ABV, enhancing its value.
Quotes: "Tropical fruit yeah and a little vanilla," and "It's just expert speech," highlighting the straightforward and expert-driven approach to tasting notes.

Aultmore 2005/2016 is a rare single malt Scotch whisky, aged for 10.5 years in a refill bourbon cask.
It features a pale straw color, unchill filtered and natural clarity.
The flavor profile is rich in tropical fruits, with pineapple and green apple notes, and a smooth finish with a menthol edge.
The whisky's story is tied to Aultmore's transition from bulk sales to offering casks to independent bottlers.
Its cultural significance lies in the use of bourbon casks, illustrating the influence of American whiskey production on Scotch.
Expert opinions commend the whisky's complexity and the practicality of its high ABV for dilution.

Whisky Collectors: Given its rarity and unique single cask nature, collectors would find this bottle a valuable addition.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a palate for nuanced flavors and the ability to appreciate the subtleties of a high ABV whisky.
Fans of Tropical Flavors: Individuals who enjoy whiskies with prominent fruit notes, especially tropical fruits, would likely enjoy this Aultmore expression.