Whisky Review/Tasting: Cardhu 21 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Cardhu Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: The specific distillation process mentioned involves a technique used at De Luen to mimic Cardhu's profile, focusing on cutting off the centerpiece of the distillation earlier. The maturation period is 21 years.
Age Statement: 21 years.
ABV: Cask strength at 54.2%.
Color & Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the emphasis on the golden printing and offset printing on the bottle may suggest a rich, golden color typical of aged whiskies.
Bottle Design: Features golden printing, a signature from Helen Cummings, a sticker indicating ABV and volume, and a label with the bottle number (2951 out of 6,000).

Initial Flavor: Maltiness, differing from the 18-year-old version which was more fruity.
Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of maltiness, sherry aroma with dark fruits (figs, dates, raisins, plums), spiciness from the cask, caramel, vanilla, darker chocolate, roasted nuts, and a hint of cinnamon.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky transitions from a spicy attack to a medium to long aftertaste with increasing fruitiness, particularly oranges and Clementines, alongside vanilla and caramel. The spiciness fades quickly, leaving a mouth-covering sensation.

Production Adjustments: Cardhu's role in Johnny Walker blends was adjusted to maintain its availability as a single malt, with De Luen mimicking Cardhu's taste to substitute in blends.
Historical Anecdote: Helen Cummings' signature on the bottle highlights her as one of the few famous women to run a distillery company.
Economic Impact: The financial crisis of 2007-2008 is mentioned as having inadvertently helped Cardhu preserve their casks due to reduced demand from Southern Europe.

Distillery Fame: Cardhu is highlighted as a very famous distillery, with its 12-year-old variant selling in millions of bottles.
Market Adjustments: The discussion includes how Cardhu adapted its offerings and production to meet market demands and maintain its presence in the single malt category.

Horst Luening's Rating: The act of not emptying the glass during the review is noted as the highest rating he can give, indicating his high regard for this whisky.
Personal Recommendation: "Whenever you have the chance to get your fingers on such a bottle, this is one of the very best I had this year."

Cardhu 21 years old is a single malt Scotch whisky with a complex flavor profile, balancing maltiness, dark fruits, spiciness, and a sweet finish.
The distillery's strategic adjustments in production and its historical significance are highlighted.
The whisky is presented in a bottle with distinctive design elements, including a signature from Helen Cummings.
Expert opinion highly rates this whisky, recommending it as one of the best of the year.

Whisky Connoisseurs: Individuals with a deep appreciation for complex flavor profiles and the subtleties of aged whiskies.
Collectors: Those interested in limited edition releases, given the bottle's unique numbering and limited production.
History and Culture Enthusiasts: Individuals fascinated by the stories behind the whisky, including the distillery's adaptation over time and the role of women in its history.