Isle of Arran 17 Years Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Isle of Arran, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Matured in ex-Sherry casks, primarily second fill, with possible third and a few first fill casks involved.
Age Statement: 17 years.
ABV: 46%.
Filtration: Non-chill filtered.
Coloring: Natural, no artificial coloring.
Color Description: Antique gold with copper highlights.
Bottle Design: Limited edition release, with a focus on natural production methods and the unique character imparted by the casks.

Aroma: Warm spices, candied citrus peel, tint mandarins, classic Arran orchard fruits.
Palate: Sweet spice, cigar tobacco, with water added depth reveals dark chocolate and orange oil.
Finish: Long and warm with cherry wood character and a puff of bonfire smoke, despite being from unpeated malted barley.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky showcases a balance between the distillery's character (citrus notes, orchard fruitiness) and the influence of the ex-Sherry casks (spiciness, oakiness). Notably, the second fill casks contribute to a more homogeneous maturation, allowing the distillery's character to shine through alongside the cask influence.

Distillery Challenges: The Isle of Arran Distillery faced initial challenges including a change in shareholder structure and a shortage of casks. Despite these hurdles, they developed innovative cask treatment and finishing series to enhance their whiskies.
Production Insights: The 17-year-old expression is part of a trilogy, highlighting the distillery's journey and growth in whisky production quality over time.

Distillery Location: Situated in the northeast of the Isle of Arran, the distillery's location contributes to its unique character. The island's natural beauty and the distillery's approach to whisky making reflect in the product.
Historical Note: Opened in 1995 by the Queen, the distillery has quickly established a reputation for quality and innovation.

"One of the best I had this month. Wonderful. A pleasure." - Horst Luening, Master Taster.
The whisky is described as very mature and complex, with a rich interplay of distillery character and cask influence.

Isle of Arran 17 Years is a single malt Scotch whisky matured in ex-Sherry casks, showcasing a complex flavor profile with warm spices, citrus, and orchard fruits.
The distillery faced early challenges but has since developed a reputation for quality and innovation.
The whisky is part of a limited edition trilogy, emphasizing its collectible nature.
Expert opinions highlight the whisky's maturity, complexity, and enjoyable tasting experience.

Whisky Collectors: Given its limited edition status and part of a trilogy, collectors would find this expression particularly appealing.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a palate for mature, complex whiskies that offer a nuanced balance of distillery character and cask influence.
Fans of Sherry Cask Whiskies: Individuals who appreciate the depth and character imparted by ex-Sherry casks, especially those interested in the subtleties of second fill cask maturation.