Whisky Review/Tasting: Knockando 25 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Space-side distillery, Scotland.
Type: Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured for 25 years entirely in first-fill European oak sherry casks.
Age Statement: 25 years.
Color and Clarity: Dark color, natural with no artificial coloring.
Bottle Design: The bottle is numbered (e.g., bottle number 1398) and bears the appointment to Her Majesty the Queen, indicating its prestigious nature.

Balance of Flavors: Dominated by extreme sherry influence, with a balance of oakiness and spices over sweetness.
Unique Characteristics: Notably dry character, likely from the oak, with complex notes of Christmas spices (cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg), chocolate, and a hint of softwood resin reminiscent of pine or cedar.
Comparison: This whisky stands out for its intense sherry and oakiness, enriched by a complex array of spices, making it a unique offering from Knockando.

Limited Edition: A limited edition of about 4,758 bottles worldwide, making it a rare find.
Maturation Insights: The discussion on oxidation during maturation versus in the bottle provides an interesting insight into the aging process and the resilience of older whiskies like this 25-year-old Knockando.

Space-side Distillery: The whisky's origin from a renowned space-side distillery adds to its allure, emphasizing the traditional Scottish craftsmanship in whisky production.
European Oak Influence: The exclusive use of European oak sherry casks for maturation highlights the traditional methods and the significant impact of cask choice on the whisky's flavor profile.

Horst Luening's Opinion: Describes the whisky as "wonderful, complex, intense sherry" with a high complexity that makes it "richly rewarding."
Quote: "This is an extremely complex and intriguing malt...whose whisky has never tasted more richly rewarding."

Knockando 25 years is a limited edition Scotch whisky matured in first-fill European oak sherry casks.
It features a dark, natural color and a complex flavor profile dominated by sherry, oak, and Christmas spices.
The whisky is a rare find, with only 4,758 bottles released worldwide.
It is described as richly rewarding, with a unique balance of dryness, sweetness, and spiciness.
The use of European oak and the insights into the oxidation process during maturation add depth to its story.

For Whisky Collectors: The limited edition nature and unique maturation process make it a must-have.
For Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: The complex flavor profile and the story behind its maturation will appeal to those with a refined palate.
For Fans of Sherry-Cask Whiskies: Its extreme sherry influence and rich, rewarding taste make it an excellent choice.
For Special Occasions: Given its rarity and rich flavor profile, it's perfect for celebrating significant milestones or as a gift for a discerning whisky lover.