Bladnoch Alinta | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Distilled by the former proprietors of Bladnoch in 2009 and bottled under the current proprietors.
Type: Heavily peated single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured in first-fill bourbon casks and first-fill PX sherry casks, with a unique approach of simultaneous maturation rather than sequential. The whisky is a blend of spirits matured in these two types of casks.
Age Statement: Not explicitly mentioned, but distilled in 2009 and reviewed in the present context, suggesting it has aged for several years.
Color and Clarity: Not described in detail, but the whisky is noted for having no coloring and no chill filtration.
Bottle Design: Described as very square in shape, with a distinctive, gracious hole at the top, giving it a unique appearance that seems to float on the table.

Nose: Peaty with a muffy smell reminiscent of a smoky ham cellar. The peatiness is dominant, with less sweetness than expected from PX sherry cask maturation.
Palate: Starts with a bonfire smokiness, transitioning to an intense smoked ham flavor. The PX sherry cask influence is present but not overwhelming, contributing subtle sweetness and dried fruit notes, possibly including raisins. There's a good balance of smokiness with vanilla tones and a hint of oak.
Finish: The review does not explicitly detail the finish, but the overall flavor profile suggests a lingering smokiness with balanced sweetness and complexity.
ABV: 47%, providing a good intensity without being overly demanding.

The Bladnoch Alinta is a product of a transition between the former and current proprietors of the distillery, showcasing a continuity of craftsmanship and innovation in whisky production.

Bladnoch Distillery holds a place in Scotland's whisky heritage, with the Alinta expression representing a modern chapter in its long history. The use of heavily peated malt and the unique maturation process highlight the distillery's experimental approach within the traditional Scotch whisky landscape.

"It's a good balance between a smoky whisky and these other nicer flavors."
The reviewer appreciates the whisky's complexity and balance, particularly noting the successful integration of smoky and sweet elements without allowing either to overwhelm the other.

Bladnoch Alinta is a heavily peated single malt Scotch whisky, distilled in 2009 and matured in both bourbon and PX sherry casks simultaneously.
The whisky offers a complex flavor profile with dominant smoky notes complemented by subtle sweetness and dried fruit from the PX sherry cask influence.
The bottle design is notably square, with no coloring or chill filtration, emphasizing the natural characteristics of the whisky.
The Alinta expression reflects Bladnoch Distillery's innovative approach to whisky making, bridging traditional and modern techniques.

Peat Lovers: Individuals who appreciate a strong peaty profile with unique smoky nuances will likely enjoy Bladnoch Alinta.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a palate for complex, balanced whiskies that offer a nuanced interplay of flavors, including the subtle influence of sherry cask maturation.
Collectors and Adventurous Drinkers: The unique maturation process and the distillery's transitional story make this a compelling choice for collectors and those looking to explore different expressions of Scotch whisky.