Edradour Pedro Ximénez Cask | Whisky Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Scottish Highlands.
- Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
- Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured 100% in Pedro Ximénez casks, not just finished, making it part of the "Straight From The Cask" (SFTC) series.
- Age Statement: 11 years.
- Color: Described as mahogany, indicating a deep, rich color.
- Clarity: Natural color, suggesting clarity and purity.
- Bottle Design: Comes in a 0.5-liter bottle at 57.4% ABV, packaged in a wooden box. Noted as the final batch to include these wooden boxes.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a complex balance between sweetness and dryness, with a notable absence of bitterness.
- Unique Characteristics: The Pedro Ximénez cask maturation contributes to a rich, sweet, and fruity profile, with a surprising shift to dryness, contrasting the expected sweetness.
- Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, the unique maturation process sets it apart, especially for those fond of Pedro Ximénez matured whiskies.
Whisky Storytelling
- Anecdotes: The name "Pedro Ximénez" humorously compared to the electric company Siemens, with a historical note about its origin from a physician who immigrated to Spain in the 18th century.
- Production Details: Limited outturn of 471 bottles from cask number 84, distilled on March 12, 2011, and bottled on July 13, 2022.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Historical Context: The use of Pedro Ximénez casks, known for their sweet sherry, adds a layer of cultural significance, highlighting the traditional Spanish influence on Scotch whisky maturation.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- Personal Opinions: Horst Luening, the senior taster, expresses a strong preference for Pedro Ximénez matured whiskies, indicating a high regard for this specific maturation process.
- Quotes: "This is one of my prey," indicating a special fondness for this type of whisky.
Summary
- Matured entirely in Pedro Ximénez casks, offering a unique flavor profile.
- Limited edition with only 471 bottles produced.
- Rich mahogany color with natural clarity.
- Flavor profile balances sweetness with unexpected dryness, without bitterness.
- Packaged in a wooden box, marking the end of this packaging tradition.
- Cultural significance through the use of traditional Spanish sherry casks.
- Highly appreciated by the reviewer for its unique maturation process.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- For the Whisky Collector: The limited outturn and final batch of wooden boxes make this an attractive addition to collections.
- For the Sweet Whisky Enthusiast: Those who enjoy sweet, sherry-matured whiskies will find the unique profile of this whisky appealing, despite its surprising dryness.
- For the Experienced Whisky Drinker: The complexity and high ABV of this whisky offer a rewarding experience for those with a developed palate and an appreciation for cask strength whiskies.