Craigellachie 8 Years Old Speyside Single Malt: A Whisky Gem by Dràm Mòr
When it comes to Speyside single malts, whisky enthusiasts are often spoiled for choice. Among the plethora of options, Craigellachie stands tall as a distillery that has quietly crafted exceptional spirits for over a century. One standout expression from this distillery is the Craigellachie 8 Years Old Speyside Single Malt, matured in a 1st Fill Ex-Bourbon cask and bottled on 27th January 2022 by Scottish independent bottler Dràm Mòr at a robust 56.8% ABV. Let's delve into the story behind this exquisite whisky and the passionate individuals behind its bottling.
The Distillery: Craigellachie - A Rocky Hill of Heritag*
Located in the heart of the Speyside whisky producing region in Scotland, the Craigellachie distillery derives its name from the Gaelic phrase "Craig Eilich," which translates to "rocky hill." This moniker aptly describes the cliff overlooking the River Spey across from the famous Macallan distillery. Established in 1891 by the Craigellachie Distillery Co. Limited, the distillery came to life under the leadership of Alexander Edward, a group of blenders, and merchants.
Over the years, the distillery changed hands several times, including ownership by Peter Mackie in 1916, the Distillery Company Limited in 1927, and SMD (Scottish Malt Distillers) in 1930. The transition to SMD marked a period of relative stability for Craigellachie, with only minor alterations, including a reconstruction in 1964-65, during which the number of pot stills doubled. In 1998, John Dewar & Sons acquired the distillery, bringing it under the purview of Bacardi through its subsidiary Dewar's.
Despite its rich history, Craigellachie has remained relatively discreet, with only a handful of official bottlings released over the years. Instead, the distillery's spirit primarily contributes to the creation of Dewar's blended whisky.
The Bottlers: Dràm Mòr - A Passion for Whisky Selections
The Craigellachie 8 Years Old Speyside Single Malt stands as a testament to the skillful cask selections of Dràm Mòr, a Scottish independent bottler owned by the renowned whisky experts Kenny and Viktorija Macdonald. Within the whisky industry, their name is synonymous with exceptional picks and unparalleled cask selections. Their keen understanding of whisky maturation and flavor profiles has allowed them to curate expressions that resonate with connoisseurs and novices alike.
Dràm Mòr's commitment to quality shines through in every release, as they carefully select whiskies that exemplify the best characteristics of their respective distilleries. The bottler's dedication to preserving the unique identities of the whiskies they bottle is evident in the Craigellachie 8 Years Old, which showcases the unmistakable Speyside charm coupled with the influence of the 1st Fill Ex-Bourbon cask.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors
As with any exceptional single malt, the Craigellachie 8 Years Old Speyside Single Malt does not disappoint in the sensory experience it delivers. Upon pouring, expect a tantalizing aroma of honeyed malt, ripe orchard fruits, and a subtle waft of vanilla and oak from the bourbon cask. On the palate, the whisky unfolds layers of rich toffee, spiced apples, and a delightful touch of nutmeg and cinnamon, all harmoniously balanced.
The higher ABV of 56.8% ensures that this expression packs a punch, both in flavor and mouthfeel. The addition of water unlocks additional complexities, unveiling floral notes and a delicate hint of citrus. The finish is satisfyingly long, leaving a warm and comforting glow, inviting you to take yet another sip.
Conclusion: A Journey into the Heart of Speyside
The Craigellachie 8 Years Old Speyside Single Malt bottled by Dràm Mòr is an exceptional whisky that captures the essence of its distillery and showcases the dedication of passionate individuals who strive to present whisky in its purest form. As you indulge in this whisky, you embark on a journey into the heart of Speyside, with every drop offering a glimpse into the rich heritage and traditions that make Scotch whisky so revered worldwide.
Whether you are a seasoned whisky aficionado or a curious newcomer, the Craigellachie 8 Years Old by Dràm Mòr is a treat that promises to delight and leave a lasting impression on your palate. Remember to savor each sip, appreciating the craftsmanship and love that has gone into creating this remarkable Speyside single malt. Slàinte!
