Tamdhu 18 Years | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Tamdhu Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: The whisky is matured in Oloroso sherry oak casks, emphasizing Tamdhu's tradition of exclusively using sherry casks for their single malts. The distillery also has a history of using Saladin boxes for malting, a method that was still in use during Hans Luening's visit in 2012.
Age Statement: 18 years.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky is noted for its natural color. The bottle design is described as multifaceted and Victorian style, consistent across Tamdhu's range. The ABV is 46.8%.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a rich and complex balance of sweetness and dryness, with a hefty and mature character.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its typical nutty note from the sherry cask, alongside dark fruitiness, chocolate, and a light cooling note likely from the alcohol. The palate transitions from sweet to dry, with a long and warming aftertaste.
Comparison: Described as the "stereotypical Oloroso sherry cask in perfection," indicating a high standard for this type of maturation.

Distillery Ownership: The distillery was owned by Edrington and part of the Robertson Trust, a non-profit, before being sold to Ian McLeod, an independent bottler. This transition highlighted a need for investment in other distilleries.
Visitation: The distillery is not open to the public, making it a more exclusive and mysterious location for whisky enthusiasts.

Sherry Cask Tradition: Tamdhu's commitment to using sherry oak casks for all their single malts is a significant aspect of their identity, setting them apart in the Scotch whisky landscape.

"This will be a really good one. I think we'll see that in the awards." - Hans Luening, indicating high expectations for the whisky's quality.
"It's the stereotypical Oloroso sherry cask in perfection." - Ben Luening, praising the whisky's exemplary use of sherry casks.
"Very mature, it doesn't have any edges to it." - A comment on the whisky's smooth and well-rounded character.

Tamdhu 18 Years is a single malt Scotch whisky matured in Oloroso sherry oak casks, known for its natural color and Victorian-style bottle.
The flavor profile is rich and complex, with a balance of sweet and dry notes, characterized by nuttiness, dark fruitiness, chocolate, and a mature, hefty body.
The distillery's history and exclusive use of sherry casks contribute to the whisky's storytelling and cultural significance.
Expert opinions praise the whisky's quality, expecting it to perform well in awards and highlighting its perfect embodiment of Oloroso sherry cask maturation.
The whisky is considered a premium offering, with prices ranging from $150 to $200, and is not widely available.

For the Sherry Cask Enthusiast: This whisky is a must-try, showcasing the depth and complexity that Oloroso casks can bring to Scotch whisky.
For the Whisky Collector: The limited availability and unique bottle design make it a desirable addition to any collection.
For the Mature Palate: Individuals who appreciate a well-rounded, mature whisky with no harsh edges will find the Tamdhu 18 Years particularly enjoyable.
For the Curious Beginner: While the price point may be high, beginners interested in exploring the impact of sherry cask maturation on whisky might find this an educational and rewarding splurge.