Whisky Review/Tasting: Miltonduff Cask Strength

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Miltonduff Distillery
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillation Date: September 22, 1994
Bottling Date: September 27, 2016
Age Statement: 22 years
ABV: 60.4%
Maturation Process: Matured in a first-fill sherry puncheon (500-liter cask), cask number 15221
Color: Natural, dark color indicative of first-fill sherry cask maturation
Clarity: Non-chill filtered
Bottle Design: The specific design isn't detailed, but the bottle is noted for its dark color and the absence of a cork, sealed instead with a capsule and parafilm.

Nose: Pronounced sherry influence, intense oakiness, dark fruits, stewed fruits, cinnamon, and cane sugar.
Palate: Peppery, stewed fruit, chocolate, hints of Brazil nut, sugary, full mouth coating, sweet oranges, with a dry aftertaste.
Finish: Likely long with oak and a hint of milk chocolate, without bitterness.
Balance: The whisky is described as powerful yet balanced, with a rich sherry influence and a complex array of flavors that are enhanced by slight dilution.

Anecdotes: Horst Luening, the mastertaster, recalls visiting Miltonduff around the time the whisky was distilled. He shares insights into the distillery's operations and Gordon & MacPhail's cask procurement and maturation strategy.
Production Insights: Miltonduff primarily produces whisky for the blended whisky industry. The distillery and Gordon & MacPhail have a practice of filling large quantities of casks to reduce costs, ensuring consistency across different bottlings.

Distillery Location: Miltonduff is located not too far from Elgin, where Gordon & MacPhail mature their casks. The distillery's contribution to blended whiskies highlights its role in the broader Scotch whisky industry.

"This whisky is so long in the cask as I was there the last time." - Reflecting on the aging process and personal connection to the distillery visit.
"Those dark whiskies are so often asked for and with a hundred and fifty it's quite in cask length from a first fill sherry cask they are outstanding cheap." - Commenting on the value proposition of this whisky.
"A wonderful piece of work." - Praise for the quality of the Miltonduff Cask Strength whisky.

Miltonduff Cask Strength is a 22-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, distilled in 1994 and bottled in 2016 at 60.4% ABV.
Matured in a first-fill sherry puncheon, it boasts a natural dark color and a complex flavor profile with a pronounced sherry influence, dark fruits, and a peppery palate.
The whisky is non-chill filtered, emphasizing its natural characteristics and quality.
Horst Luening shares personal anecdotes and insights into the distillery's operations and the whisky's maturation process.
The whisky offers excellent value, especially given its age, cask type, and flavor profile.

Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate the rich, complex flavors imparted by first-fill sherry casks will find this whisky particularly appealing.
Experienced Whisky Drinkers: The high ABV and intricate flavor profile make this an excellent choice for seasoned whisky aficionados looking for depth and intensity.
Collectors and Connoisseurs: Given its rarity, age, and unique characteristics, this Miltonduff bottling is a worthy addition to any collection.
Adventurous Beginners: While the high alcohol content may be challenging, beginners with a keen interest in exploring the nuances of cask strength whiskies might find this an enlightening experience, especially when diluted to taste.