Cardhu 16 Years Old Diageo Special Releases 2022 58% NV

Professional reviews

Gal Granov (85)

Nose: A bit of an alcohol bite, it needs some time to settle in the glass, then it’s fruity with a touch of tropicals (Rum finish, remember)? I am picking up some strawberry smoothie , peach cobbler, and then a hint of pineapple, it’s not overripe stuff you expect from some Jamaican rums, but it’s there… Some more nosing reveals a hint of toffee and milk chocolate as well, in addition to some sweet danish pastries.
Palate: Sweet and spicy at times, with lots of red apples, stewed pears, and more of the pineapple notes, on top of toffee, chocolate, and some fudge. There’s certainly a hint of rum, but it’s not overpowering, which is nice.

Finish: Tropical and quite lovely, with the tropical fruit notes going on for quite some time, the apples are here as well.

Thoughts: It’s a nice whisky, with quite a bit of fruity notes, I especially like the finish, with the tropical fruit. It’s rather nice. A very good whisky, but I’m still not convinced. I am expecting something a bit more special from the Special Release. But, hey – it’s me.

Words of Whisky (88)

:

Refill and re-charred American Oak and Jamaican pot still rum seasoned
Nose: Some surprising mineral notes and touches of varnish, followed by pear skin, brown sugar, pineapple, and hints of hints of forest floor. Finally some plums, honey and biscuits.
Taste: Thumbs up for the creamy mouthfeel. The palate displays a vibrant fruitiness. Hints of grapefruit, mango and tangerines. Hints of almonds and something vegetal, as well as orange liqueur and dark caramel. Really very pleasant.
Finish: Hints of honey, mango and a touch of chalk. Gentle, warming spices. Medium in length.

CONCLUSION
I’m really happy with how the Cardhu 16 Years turned out. The Jamaican pot still casks certainly seemed to have added a tropical fruitiness that’s always very welcome. But it’s also not overtly rummy, if you know what I mean.

BOW (87.50)

Cardhu 16 Years Old: Diageo Special Releases 2022 Unveils a Unique Rum Cask Finish

Cardhu, renowned for its smooth and approachable Speyside whiskies, has introduced a captivating limited edition expression as part of the Diageo Special Releases 2022 lineup. The Cardhu 16 Years Old offers whisky enthusiasts a delightful exploration of flavors and an intriguing twist with its finish on Jamaican pot still rum casks. Bottled at a robust 58% ABV, this distinctive release showcases the artistry of cask maturation and the creative blending techniques employed by the talented team at Cardhu distillery. With its limited availability, the Cardhu 16 Years Old Diageo Special Releases 2022 is set to enthrall both whisky connoisseurs and rum enthusiasts alike.

The Marriage of Speyside and Jamaican Flair:
The Cardhu 16 Years Old pays homage to its Speyside roots while embarking on a unique journey by finishing its maturation in Jamaican pot still rum casks. The marriage of these two distinct spirits creates an intriguing interplay of flavors, combining the elegance and fruity character of Cardhu with the rich, tropical notes imparted by the rum casks. This collaboration results in a whisky that is both familiar and adventurous, appealing to whisky enthusiasts seeking a new and exciting sensory experience.

Cask Maturation and Flavor Profile:
The carefully selected Cardhu spirit, aged for 16 years, is transferred to ex-Jamaican pot still rum casks for a final period of maturation. During this finishing process, the whisky interacts with the remnants of the rum, absorbing its unique characteristics and developing a captivating flavor profile. The Jamaican rum casks contribute vibrant notes of tropical fruits, ripe bananas, pineapple, and hints of spicy oak. These flavors intertwine harmoniously with Cardhu's signature honeyed sweetness, orchard fruits, and delicate floral undertones, creating a complex and well-rounded whisky with a delightful balance of flavors.

Sensory Journey:
The Cardhu 16 Years Old tantalizes the senses from the first encounter. On the nose, aromas of caramelized sugar, vanilla, and exotic fruits waft from the glass, inviting exploration. The palate reveals a luscious combination of honeyed sweetness, tropical fruits, and a subtle spiciness, followed by waves of rich toffee, oak spices, and a gentle hint of rum. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering impression of warm spices and sweet, fruity notes.

Limited Availability:
As part of Diageo's Special Releases 2022, the Cardhu 16 Years Old is a highly sought-after whisky with limited availability. Each bottle is individually numbered, further emphasizing its exclusivity and desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. The rarity of this release makes it a prized addition to any whisky collection, as it offers a unique and memorable drinking experience.

Conclusion:
The Cardhu 16 Years Old Diageo Special Releases 2022 is a remarkable whisky that showcases the artistry of cask maturation and the spirit of innovation. The marriage of Speyside elegance and Jamaican rum cask influence creates a captivating flavor profile that delights the senses. With its limited availability, this release is a treasure for whisky connoisseurs and rum aficionados alike, offering a harmonious blend of two distinct spirits. The Cardhu 16 Years Old is a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of Cardhu distillery, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to experience its splendor.