Whisky Review/Tasting: Stronachie 10 Years Sherry Edition

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The whisky is sourced from the Benrinnes Distillery, located in the Highlands of Scotland.
Type: It is a single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: This whisky has been matured in sherry casks and is 10 years old. It is bottled at 46% ABV, uncolored, and non-chill filtered.
Age Statement: 10 years.
Color and Bottle Design: While the color is not explicitly described, the whisky is noted to be uncolored, suggesting a natural hue from the sherry cask maturation. The bottle design specifics are not mentioned, but it carries the Stronachie name, reviving an old distillery brand.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky is described as very balanced, with a smooth integration of malt, honey, sherry, and a hint of pepper.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its mouth-filling intensity and a distinctive biscuit note reminiscent of the soft bottom layer of a cake, coupled with a little honey and a smooth, spicy pepper finish.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its profile is indicative of a typical Highland malt influenced by sherry cask maturation.

Historical Anecdote: The Stronachie Distillery was established in the 1890s but ceased production and was dismantled in 1928. The A.D. Rattray company, a spirits dealer connected to the original distillery, revived the Stronachie name by sourcing whisky from Benrinnes that closely matched the taste of a 1904 Stronachie bottle they acquired and tasted.

Revival of a Lost Name: The effort to recreate the Stronachie whisky's original taste and bring back the brand name highlights a dedication to preserving whisky heritage and history, particularly of the lost distilleries of Scotland.

Horst Luening's Opinion: "This is a wonderful sipping whisky, very balanced between everything... I like it very much, yes."
On Flavor Intensity: "The intensity of the taste is quite high... the aromas are all on top so the alcohol is not smellable... this is really an intense whisky."

Sourced from Benrinnes Distillery, aged 10 years in sherry casks.
Unusual revival of the historic Stronachie distillery name by A.D. Rattray.
Flavor profile includes malt, honey, sherry, and a unique biscuit note, with a smooth, spicy pepper finish.
Celebrates Scottish whisky heritage by recreating a lost whisky's taste.
Praised for its balance and intensity, making it a highly recommended sipping whisky.

Whisky Enthusiasts Interested in Distillery History: Those fascinated by the stories of lost distilleries and the revival of historic whisky brands.
Fans of Sherry Cask Matured Whisky: Individuals who appreciate the rich, complex flavors imparted by sherry cask maturation.
Beginners to Intermediate Whisky Drinkers: The balance and lack of overpowering alcohol make it accessible, yet interesting enough for those developing their palate.