Whisky Review/Tasting: Ledaig 2005 Signatory

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Distilled on the Isle of Mull at the Tobermory distillery, matured in the Highlands of Scotland.
Type: Single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Distilled on November 8, 2005, and matured for 10 years in a first-fill sherry cask (cask number 900,150), bottled on November 27, 2015, at cask strength (58.2% ABV).
Age Statement: 10 years.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky is uncolored, showcasing its natural hue. The bottle design is noted for its heavy bottom and shiny surface, indicating value. The cork features a large wooden wheel, adding to the aesthetic appeal.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of smokiness, vanilla, and fruitiness, with a notable absence of sweet sherry flavors.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky exhibits a dual nature of smoke—half phenolic medicinal and half bonfire. It also presents a non-sweet sherry influence, with vanilla, caramel, and a hint of orange peel.
Comparison: Distinguished from other sherry cask whiskies by its lack of sweetness, instead offering a full, intense, and aromatic profile with a slight peppery note and no bitterness.

Anecdotes: The whisky's name, Ledaig, is pronounced "L'Chic" by the natives of the Isle of Mull, showcasing the local dialect and pronunciation challenges.
Trivia: The bottle is one of a limited run of 666, emphasizing its exclusivity.

Isle of Mull and Highlands: The whisky bridges two distinct Scottish regions, distilled on the Isle of Mull and matured in the Highlands, challenging the notion that geographical separation impacts the whisky's character due to the minimal difference in microclimate.

"It's so complex, so full. The smoke is... half of it is phenolic medicinal and the other half is bonfire."
"This one is a really good one. It's not so sweet as the other sherry cask whiskies are... it's fruity, it's full, it's intense and adds a lot of aroma to the whiskey."

Distilled on the Isle of Mull and matured in the Highlands, this 10-year-old Ledaig 2005 Signatory is a single malt Scotch whisky with a complex flavor profile.
It features a balance of smokiness, vanilla, and fruitiness, with a unique non-sweet sherry influence.
The whisky's name pronunciation and limited bottle run add to its storytelling appeal.
Its production and maturation process challenge the significance of geographical location on whisky character.
Experts praise its complexity and full-bodied aroma, distinguishing it from sweeter sherry cask whiskies.

Peated Whisky Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate a complex smoky profile with a balance of medicinal and bonfire notes.
Sherry Cask Aficionados: Individuals looking for a sherry influence without the typical sweetness, seeking a more nuanced and intense flavor.
Collectors and Connoisseurs: The limited run and unique characteristics make it appealing for collectors and those who value exclusivity and complexity in their whisky selection.