Maclean's Nose | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The whisky is a blend issued by Adelphi, an independent bottler. It includes a significant contribution from the Aertner-Muchan distillery, which is relatively new and considered Charles Maclean's favorite.
Type: Blended whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Contains roughly 70% malt whisky with some portion matured in sherry casks, contributing to its brown color.
Age Statement: No age statement provided.
Color & Bottle Design: The whisky has a brown color due to sherry cask maturation. The bottle design includes a unique aspect where the label is made from the draff (residual from distillation), converted into a sort of paper.

Nose: Friendly and welcoming with notes of peaches, nectarines, syrup, lightly sweet, lime marmalade, citrus, light straw, and flowery. A faint smoky component is also mentioned, resembling burnt citrus peel or a coal cellar.
Taste: Intense and prickly on the tongue, reminiscent of rye whiskey with light, sharp, peppery notes. Distinct citrus notes persist, with lime, hazelnuts, and a light chocolate note towards the end. A burning character and light smokiness are also present, though not overwhelming.
Balance of Flavors: The blend is well-done, with a significant malt whisky presence (70%) that provides depth. The grain component is soft, smoothing the overall profile.

Named after Charles Maclean, the chief nose of Adelphi, who is renowned for his extensive contributions to whisky literature and tasting notes. The whisky is a tribute to his favorite distillery, Aertner-Muchan, which is suggested to provide the lead malt in this blend.

The whisky embodies a connection to the Scottish whisky tradition through its association with Charles Maclean, a respected figure in the whisky community. The use of a relatively new distillery as a significant component adds a modern twist to this tradition.

Hans Luening describes the whisky as "well done for a blend," highlighting the smooth integration of malt and grain components and the unique, albeit not overwhelming, smoky character.

Maclean's Nose is a blended whisky with a significant malt component, matured in part in sherry casks.
It features a complex flavor profile with citrus, sweet, and smoky notes.
Named in honor of Charles Maclean, reflecting his influence and preferences in the whisky world.
Lacks an age statement, with a unique bottle design utilizing draff paper.
Praised for its balance and quality as a blend.

For Enthusiasts: Whisky enthusiasts who appreciate the art of blending and the influence of sherry cask maturation might find this blend particularly intriguing.
For Beginners: New whisky drinkers might enjoy the approachable and varied flavor profile, offering a gentle introduction to the complexity of blended whiskies.
For Collectors: Collectors interested in whiskies with a story or unique production aspects, such as the draff paper label, might find Maclean's Nose a noteworthy addition.
For Fans of Charles Maclean: Individuals who admire Charles Maclean's work and influence in the whisky industry would likely appreciate this tribute to his preferences and legacy.