Craigellachie Armagnac Cask Finish 13 years | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Craigellachie Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Initially matured in rejuvenated ex-bourbon casks, followed by a finishing period in Armagnac casks from the Gascogne region in southwest France.
Age Statement: 13 years.
Color & Clarity: Lightly hazy, indicating it's non-chill filtered.
Bottle Design: Not specifically described, but the product is differentiated from the standard 13-year-old Craigellachie by its Armagnac cask finish.

Balance of Flavors: Strong fruity aromas with a balance of sweet and spicy notes, particularly in the aftertaste.
Unique Characteristics: The Armagnac cask finishing contributes to a unique aromatic note, likely influenced by Limousin oak, and adds complexity with flavors of caramelized apple, cinnamon, and a hint of cappuccino.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, the unique finishing process sets it apart from typical Scotch whiskies matured solely in wine or fortified wine casks.

Anecdotes: The Craigellachie 13 Armagnac Cask Finish is part of a tradition of experimenting with cask finishes, standing out from the standard 13-year-old expression. The distillery's use of rejuvenated casks for the initial maturation adds a layer of innovation to its process.
Trivia: Craigellachie is one of the few distilleries still using worm tubs, which are often associated with a sulfurous aroma, though this characteristic is not present in this whisky.

Armagnac Region: The choice of Armagnac casks for finishing highlights the cultural and geographical significance of the Gascogne region in France, known for producing high-quality brandies that are even older than those from Cognac.

"Extremely wonderful," and "wonderfully fresh and full in the aroma," indicating a high appreciation for the whisky's complex and vibrant profile.
The observation that the whisky is "lightly hazy" and "not colored" emphasizes a preference for natural presentation in whisky.

Craigellachie 13 Armagnac Cask Finish is a unique single malt Scotch whisky, matured in rejuvenated ex-bourbon casks and finished in Armagnac casks.
It features a strong fruity aroma with a complex flavor profile including caramelized apple, cinnamon, and a hint of cappuccino.
The use of Armagnac casks from the Gascogne region adds a distinctive aromatic note and complexity.
The whisky is non-chill filtered, lightly hazy, and naturally presented without added coloring.
Craigellachie's use of worm tubs is noted, though the expected sulfurous aroma is absent, contributing to the whisky's fresh and full aroma.

For the Adventurous Drinker: The unique Armagnac cask finish and complex flavor profile make this an exciting choice for those looking to explore beyond traditional Scotch whisky finishes.
For the Whisky Collector: The distinctiveness of the Armagnac finish and the craftsmanship involved in its production make this a worthy addition to any collection.
For the Flavor Chaser: Individuals who appreciate a complex and aromatic whisky with a balance of sweet and spicy notes will find this expression particularly enjoyable.