Whisky Review/Tasting: Inchmurrin 1996 Signatory

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Part of Loch Lomond Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation: Utilizes a pot still combined with a rectifier column, producing a lighter alcohol.
Maturation: Aged in a refill sherry cask (European oak) for 18 years. Distilled on November 18, 1996, and bottled on February 2, 2015.
Age Statement: 18 years.
Color and Clarity: Very light color, typical for refill casks. Chill-filtered but not colored.
Bottle Design: Features a two-colored tube with a copper bottom and malt-colored top, indicative of the Signatory Vintage series.

Balance of Flavors: Starts light and fruity, transitioning to a spicy and intense oakiness without significant bitterness.
Unique Characteristics: Despite its light color, it has a hefty aftertaste from the tannins of the refill butt. The use of a rectifier column in distillation contributes to its lighter character.
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but its unique distillation process and maturation in a refill sherry cask distinguish it from typical single malts.

Distillery Background: Loch Lomond Distillery houses two types of malt distilling (pot stills and column stills for grain), allowing for a unique blend of grain and malt whisky. Inchmurrin is named after the whiskies coming from a specific type of pot still combined with a rectifier.
Ownership and Bottling: The distillery was sold to a financial investor in 2015, raising questions about future official bottlings. This particular cask, bottled by Signatory Vintage, highlights the rarity and value of independent bottlings.

Loch Lomond Distillery: Represents a significant part of Scotland's whisky production, showcasing innovative distillation techniques that contribute to the diversity of Scotch whisky.

"For 18 years, it's affordable."
"It's quite rare to get those old independent bottles today."
"A definite buy for this bottle so you can see how a well long matured whisky tastes from its distillery character."

Inchmurrin 1996 is an 18-year-old single malt from Loch Lomond Distillery, bottled by Signatory Vintage.
It features a light, fruity flavor profile with a spicy, intense oakiness, matured in a refill sherry cask.
The whisky is part of a unique distillation process, contributing to its lighter character and complexity.
It represents the rarity and value of independent bottlings in today's market.
Recommended for those interested in experiencing the nuanced character of a long-matured whisky and the craftsmanship of independent bottlers.

Whisky Connoisseurs: Individuals with a deep appreciation for the nuances of whisky maturation and distillation techniques will find the Inchmurrin 1996 Signatory a fascinating addition to their collection.
Budget-conscious Aficionados: Those looking for an aged whisky with a unique profile at an affordable price will be drawn to this bottle.
Fans of Lighter Whiskies: Drinkers who prefer a lighter, fruitier whisky with a complex finish may particularly enjoy the Inchmurrin 1996.