Whisky Review/Tasting: Macduff 1997 Signatory Vintage

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Macduff Distillery, located in Banff, close to the North Sea.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Distilled on June 12, 1979, and bottled on November 13, 2013. Aged for 16 years.
Age Statement: 16 years.
Color and Clarity: Uncoloured, unchill-filtered, indicating a natural appearance.
Bottle Design and Packaging: Part of a limited edition with 692 bottles produced from two hogsheads (casks 4077 and 4078), emphasizing the exclusivity and craft of the independent bottler Signatory Vintage.

Balance of Flavors: Well-rounded, with a harmonious balance between distillery character and cask influence.
Unique Characteristics: Lacks the typical caramel and vanilla notes, suggesting the use of reused casks. Instead, it showcases darker fruits, exotic fruits like papaya, and a noticeable spiciness from the oak.
Comparison: More intense and fruitier than the previously tasted Vettergern, with a significant cask influence that adds depth and complexity.

Anecdotes: The blending of two casks (4077 and 4078) is highlighted as a strategy to harmonize taste and ensure more bottles are available for distribution, showcasing the practical aspects of whisky production and distribution by independent bottlers like Signatory Vintage.

Historical Context: Macduff Distillery, better known for producing Glendevron, is situated in a region with a rich whisky heritage, close to the North Sea, which may influence the character of its whiskies.

"Full and intense...much sweeter, more fruity, and the old cask is appearing bringing spiciness to the front end."
"Well-rounded and a particular age and they are not too expensive so it's a good buy."

Macduff 1997 Signatory Vintage is a 16-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, distilled in 1979 and bottled in 2013.
It features a natural color and is unchill-filtered, with a limited production run.
The flavor profile is rich and complex, with darker and exotic fruits, and a notable absence of typical caramel and vanilla notes, replaced by a distinct spiciness from the oak.
The whisky is described as well-rounded, with a good balance between the distillery's character and the cask's influence.
It is considered a good buy due to its quality and relatively affordable price.

Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with an appreciation for the nuances of single malt Scotch whisky will enjoy the complex flavor profile and the craftsmanship involved in its production.
Collectors: The limited edition nature and unique characteristics of this whisky make it an appealing addition to any collection.
Beginners: May find this whisky intriguing due to its approachable price point and the opportunity to explore a less common distillery's output.
Gift Seekers: An excellent choice for a thoughtful and distinctive gift, given its quality, uniqueness, and presentation.