Whisky Review/Tasting: Aultmore 2008 8 Years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Eastern Highland village of Huntly, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured for eight years in oak casks, likely hogsheads, followed by a three-month finishing period in an octave cask made from ex-sherry wood.
Age Statement: 8 years.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the use of ex-sherry octave casks suggests a potentially rich coloration.
Bottle Design and Details: Limited edition with only 111 bottles produced, bottled at 52.7% ABV. The bottle is not described in detail, but it is noted as being part of an exclusive release for whisky.de.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky exhibits a balance between grassy and herbal notes with a sweet undertone, enhanced by the octave cask's influence.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its absence of youthful metallic notes and the successful addition of wood aromas from the second maturation in the octave cask.
Comparison: No direct comparisons are made, but the unique maturation process sets it apart from other whiskies.

Anecdotes: The rarity of Aultmore bottlings is highlighted, with a mention of previous collections that brought fame to the distillery.
Trivia: The specific details about the octave cask's size and its impact on the whisky's maturation process provide interesting insights into the craft of whisky making.

Historical Context: Aultmore's scarcity in the market, especially for younger, more affordable expressions, is noted, adding to the exclusivity and appeal of this particular bottling.

Opinions: Horst Luening, the master taster, praises the absence of youthful harshness and the enhanced maturation due to the octave cask, recommending such casks for improving whiskies with insufficient aromas.
Quotes: "So whenever you have the chance to get your fingers on those small octave casks, very recommended. Very good idea."

Exclusive Aultmore 2008 8-year-old single malt, limited to 111 bottles.
Matured in oak casks with a final three-month finish in an ex-sherry octave cask.
Flavor profile includes grassy, herbal, and sweet notes, with a peppery note and toffee aftertaste.
Lacks youthful metallic notes, with a successful addition of wood aromas from the second maturation.
Recommended for its unique maturation process and the enhanced flavors it imparts.

Whisky Collectors: Given its limited release and unique maturation process, this Aultmore would appeal to collectors seeking rare finds.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a palate for nuanced flavors and an appreciation for the craft of whisky maturation would likely enjoy this expression.
Fans of Highland Whiskies: Individuals who favor the typical profiles of Highland whiskies might find this Aultmore particularly interesting due to its unique finishing process.