Whisky Review/Tasting: Aberfeldy 18 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Aberfeldy Distillery, located on the leafy banks of the River Tay in the central highlands of Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Aged for 18 years in oak casks, likely including sherry casks given the flavor profile.
Age Statement: 18 years.
Color and Clarity: Described as a "honeyed golden dram," indicating a rich, golden color.
Bottle Design: The bottle is a 1-liter, heavy, and bulgy design, featuring a new design with a black tube and old golden letters. The packaging includes historical references and royal appointments.

Balance of Flavors: A complex and rich profile with a balance between sweetness, fruitiness, and spices.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its honeyed sweetness without actual honey added, and a faint hint of smoke that is characteristic of Aberfeldy bottlings.
Comparison: While specific comparisons aren't made, the flavor profile suggests it would appeal to those who enjoy sherried whiskies with notes of dried fruits, spices, and a mellow character.

Anecdotes: The distillery's history is tied to the Dewar family, with references to the pristine waters of the Pitilie Burn, which contains traces of gold, deemed perfect for their "golden dram."
Trivia: The distillery was established in 1898, with a backstory involving the Dewar brothers and their father's journey from a nearby croft to Perth to seek his fortune.

Historical Context: Aberfeldy's location and water source are highlighted, along with its founding by the Dewar family, which is a significant name in the Scotch whisky industry.
Geographical Significance: The central highlands of Scotland and the specific mention of the River Tay and Pitilie Burn emphasize the importance of natural resources in whisky production.

Opinions: Horst Luening, the mastertaster, expresses a strong preference for this whisky, praising its complexity, aged character, and reasonable price despite recent market trends.
Quotes: "Far too seldom you find such a wonderful complex and aged whiskey for such a reasonable price."

Aberfeldy 18 years old is a single malt Scotch whisky with a rich, complex flavor profile, including honeyed sweetness, dried fruits, spices, and a faint hint of smoke.
It is aged for 18 years in oak casks, likely including sherry casks, and comes in a 1-liter bottle with a new design.
The whisky's story is intertwined with the Dewar family and the natural resources of its Scottish highlands location.
Horst Luening highly recommends this whisky for its complexity, aged character, and value.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a preference for complex, aged whiskies with a rich history will find the Aberfeldy 18 years old particularly appealing.
For Sherried Whisky Lovers: Individuals who enjoy the rich, fruity, and spicy profile typical of sherried whiskies will likely enjoy this offering.
For Collectors: Given its limited availability, unique bottle design, and historical significance, this whisky could be a valuable addition to a collector's shelf.
For Beginners: While the price point may be higher, beginners interested in exploring deeper, complex flavors in whisky might find this an enriching experience.