Professional reviews
Serge Valentin (88)
Whisky Notes (88)
Nose: A hit of furniture polish, burlap, mush bananas and light floral touches accompanied by a whiff of ginger, cloves and nutmeg. There’s room for some sultanas too, as well some apricots and gentle apple notes. Very subtle and well-integrated.
Taste: Bonus point for a very creamy mouthfeel. The arrival is spicy with cloves, ginger and nutmeg again, but there are also sweet touches of fudge, beeswax and sultanas. A whiff of mint, but also shortbread.
Finish: The comforting oak influence and spices linger for a decent while.
CONCLUSION
Very suitable to play around with adding water, this Macduff is a very pleasant surprise and delivers on several levels.
BOW (89)
In the realm of independent bottlings, Michiel Wigman's They Inspired II series stands as a canvas where craftsmanship and inspiration converge. The Macduff 10 Years Old, distilled in March 2011 and bottled in November 2021, is a jewel in this collection. Part of Serie 2.6, this expression, with its captivating artwork by Hans Dillesse, matures on a Sherry Hogshead, promising a sensory journey that transcends time and tradition.
Crafting Inspiration with They Inspired II:
Michiel Wigman, a name synonymous with independent bottlings of exceptional quality, embarked on a creative endeavor with the They Inspired II series. This collection, a testament to the artistry of whisky-making, explores the intersection between the spirits within the cask and the artists who give life to their labels. The Macduff 10 Years Old, a distinguished member of this series, embodies the spirit of inspiration.
Artistry by Hans Dillesse:
Hans Dillesse, known for his talent in translating emotions into visual art, lends his creative touch to the label design of Serie 2.6. The Macduff 10 Years Old becomes a work of art, with each bottle telling a unique story through the brushstrokes and imagery carefully chosen to complement the character of the whisky within.
Maturation in a Sherry Hogshead:
The Macduff 10 Years Old matures in a Sherry Hogshead, a cask known for imparting rich, nuanced flavors to the spirit it cradles. This maturation process adds depth and complexity to the whisky, as it absorbs the influences of the sherry-soaked wood. The result is a harmonious marriage of Macduff's spirit and the sweet, fruity notes characteristic of sherry-matured whiskies.
Tasting Notes:
Upon uncorking, the Macduff 10 Years Old reveals itself with a symphony of aromas. The nose is greeted by the warmth of Sherry, intertwined with hints of dried fruits, vanilla, and a subtle nuttiness. At 52.3% alcohol content, the palate experiences a crescendo of flavors—dark chocolate, figs, and a gentle spiciness dance on the taste buds, creating a well-rounded and captivating profile.
Limited Edition Rarity:
With only 194 bottles in existence, the Macduff 10 Years Old becomes a collector's treasure. The limited availability adds an extra layer of allure to this expression, making it a coveted piece for those who appreciate not only the artistry of the label but also the rarity of the liquid it encapsulates.
Conclusion:
In the Macduff 10 Years Old from the They Inspired II series, Michiel Wigman, Hans Dillesse, and the Macduff distillery have created a masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of conventional whisky. From the Sherry Hogshead maturation to the artistic expression on the label, each element contributes to a symphony of inspiration. As enthusiasts savor this limited edition release, they partake in a sensory journey that celebrates the convergence of art, craftsmanship, and the timeless allure of a well-aged Macduff.
