Annandale Man O' Sword Founders' Selection Cask 370 58.8% 2017

Professional reviews

BOW (88.50)

A Peated Delight Matured in S.T.R. and French Red Wine Casks

Nestled in the quaint town of Annan in the southwest of Scotland, the Annandale Distillery carries a rich history dating back to its original establishment in 1836. Having undergone a complete refurbishment in 2011, the distillery resumed production of whisky in 2014 under the ownership of Prof. Dr. David Thompson and his wife, Teresa. With meticulous attention to detail, they have revived the distillery's legacy, offering an array of exquisite expressions. Among them is the Annandale Man O' Sword Founders' Selection Cask 370, a peated lowland whisky aged in S.T.R. and ex-French red wine casks. In this article, we delve into the tasting notes and explore the story behind this exceptional single cask bottling.

Tasting Notes:
The Annandale Man O' Sword Founders' Selection Cask 370 unveils a captivating array of flavors that exemplify the unique character of this peated lowland whisky.

Nose:
Elevated peat smoke rises from the glass, entwined with nuances of tobacco smoke and smoked bacon. The aromatic experience is further complemented by delightful notes of coconut, almonds, and cherries, creating a symphony of enticing scents.

Taste:
Upon the first sip, a peat explosion delights the palate, accompanied by earthy undertones and the freshness of green leaves. Creamy vanilla and ripe peach add a touch of sweetness, balancing the smoky intensity and creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Finish:
The finale of this exceptional whisky is marked by a gentle pinch of black pepper, adding a subtle spice that lingers on the taste buds.

The Annandale Distillery:
The Annandale Distillery, with its roots tracing back to the 19th century, has undergone a remarkable transformation under the stewardship of Prof. Dr. David Thompson and Teresa Thompson. The distillery's historic buildings have been meticulously restored, creating a charming and picturesque environment. Inside, a state-of-the-art distillery stands, where tradition and modern techniques converge to produce exceptional whiskies.

Founders' Selection:
The Man O' Sword Founders' Selection Cask 370 is part of Annandale's distinguished Founders' Selection range. This range encompasses both peated (Man of Sword) and non-peated (Man of Words) variants, each matured in carefully selected casks. The S.T.R. (shaved, toasted, recharred) and ex-French red wine casks used in the maturation process bring unique nuances and depth to the whisky's flavor profile.

Conclusion:
The Annandale Man O' Sword Founders' Selection Cask 370 represents the culmination of the distillery's dedication to craftsmanship and the art of whisky making. With its elevated peat smoke, tantalizing flavors, and harmonious finish, this single cask bottling showcases the distinctive character of Annandale's peated lowland whisky.

Whether savored by whisky connoisseurs or enthusiasts, the Annandale Man O' Sword Founders' Selection Cask 370 offers a memorable and delightful tasting experience. It is a testament to the passion and commitment of Prof. Dr. David Thompson, Teresa Thompson, and the entire Annandale team, who have revived this historic distillery and crafted exceptional expressions that pay homage to its heritage.