Edradour Pedro Ximénez Cask | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

• Origin: Scottish Highlands.
• Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
• Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured 100% in Pedro Ximénez casks, not just finished, making it part of the "Straight From The Cask" (SFTC) series.
• Age Statement: 11 years.
• Color: Described as mahogany, indicating a deep, rich color.
• Clarity: Natural color, suggesting clarity and purity.
• Bottle Design: Comes in a 0.5-liter bottle at 57.4% ABV, packaged in a wooden box. Noted as the final batch to include these wooden boxes.

Whisky Flavor Profile

• Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a complex balance between sweetness and dryness, with a notable absence of bitterness.
• Unique Characteristics: The Pedro Ximénez cask maturation contributes to a rich, sweet, and fruity profile, with a surprising shift to dryness, contrasting the expected sweetness.
• Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, the unique maturation process sets it apart, especially for those fond of Pedro Ximénez matured whiskies.

Whisky Storytelling

• Anecdotes: The name "Pedro Ximénez" humorously compared to the electric company Siemens, with a historical note about its origin from a physician who immigrated to Spain in the 18th century.
• Production Details: Limited outturn of 471 bottles from cask number 84, distilled on March 12, 2011, and bottled on July 13, 2022.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

• Historical Context: The use of Pedro Ximénez casks, known for their sweet sherry, adds a layer of cultural significance, highlighting the traditional Spanish influence on Scotch whisky maturation.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

• Personal Opinions: Horst Luening, the senior taster, expresses a strong preference for Pedro Ximénez matured whiskies, indicating a high regard for this specific maturation process.
• Quotes: "This is one of my prey," indicating a special fondness for this type of whisky.

Summary

• Matured entirely in Pedro Ximénez casks, offering a unique flavor profile.
• Limited edition with only 471 bottles produced.
• Rich mahogany color with natural clarity.
• Flavor profile balances sweetness with unexpected dryness, without bitterness.
• Packaged in a wooden box, marking the end of this packaging tradition.
• Cultural significance through the use of traditional Spanish sherry casks.
• Highly appreciated by the reviewer for its unique maturation process.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

• For the Whisky Collector: The limited outturn and final batch of wooden boxes make this an attractive addition to collections.
• For the Sweet Whisky Enthusiast: Those who enjoy sweet, sherry-matured whiskies will find the unique profile of this whisky appealing, despite its surprising dryness.
• For the Experienced Whisky Drinker: The complexity and high ABV of this whisky offer a rewarding experience for those with a developed palate and an appreciation for cask strength whiskies.