Edradour Super Tuscan Cask

Whisky Review/Tasting: Edradour Super Tuscan Cask

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Edradour Distillery, Scotland.
  • Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
  • Distillation and Maturation Process: Distilled in March/April 2006, this whisky was matured exclusively in Super Tuscan wine barrels from the first day until bottling in April 2014, making it an 8-year-old whisky.
  • Age Statement: 8 years.
  • Color and Clarity: Natural color, unfiltered.
  • Bottle Design: The specific design wasn't detailed, but the product is part of a limited release, with this batch being limited to 2,450 bottles.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Balance of Flavors: Described as very well balanced, with a harmonious blend of distillery character, cask character (caramel and vanilla), and a slight aroma of fruity wine.
  • Unique Characteristics: The whisky showcases a complex harmony of aromas, with a mouthwatering effect, fruitiness, oakiness, and no bitterness. It's noted for its drinkability and balance.
  • Comparison: Compared to other wine cask-aged whiskies reviewed by the host, the Super Tuscan cask whisky is considered the best buy for its wonderful flow, interesting balance, and lack of overpowering tannins or oakiness.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Super Tuscan Wine Barrels: The whisky's unique maturation in Super Tuscan wine barrels, which are Italian red wines from Tuscany that defy traditional Chianti Classico regulations for a more intense flavor profile.
  • Distillery Challenges: Edradour, being one of the smallest distilleries in Scotland, faced challenges in filling the 24 casks due to the small size of their stills, requiring multiple distillations over several days.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Super Tuscan Rebellion: The use of Super Tuscan barrels ties the whisky to a significant movement in Italian winemaking where producers, like Piero Antinori, broke away from traditional Chianti Classico regulations to create more intense, 100% grape wines, elevating their status and price.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • "Wonderful balance between the distillery character, the cask character of this caramel and vanilla, and then a slight aroma of wine on top... Very drinkable. Too drinkable."
  • "The Super Tuscan. Wonderful flowing. Interesting. Balanced. So I think this is the best buy of those three."

Summary

  • Edradour Super Tuscan Cask is an 8-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured exclusively in Super Tuscan wine barrels.
  • It features a well-balanced flavor profile with a complex harmony of distillery character, cask character, and fruity wine notes.
  • The whisky is part of a limited release, with this batch limited to 2,450 bottles.
  • The use of Super Tuscan barrels connects the whisky to a notable winemaking movement in Italy, adding a layer of cultural significance.
  • The whisky is highly praised for its balance, drinkability, and unique maturation process, making it a recommended buy among similar wine cask-aged whiskies.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • Wine Enthusiasts: Individuals with a preference for wine, particularly Italian reds, may find the Super Tuscan cask maturation intriguing and enjoyable.
  • Scotch Aficionados: Those who appreciate Scotch whiskies with unique cask finishes will likely enjoy the complexity and balance of this whisky.
  • Collectors: Given its limited release and unique maturation story, collectors looking for distinctive bottles may find this whisky a valuable addition.
  • Beginners: The described drinkability and balance make it a potentially good choice for those new to Scotch, looking to explore whiskies with wine cask influences.