More Whisky Exchange ‘Exclusives’!
The Whisky Exchange has released two more drams in it’s popular ‘Exclusives’ range!
First up is an ex-bourbon-matured Balblair 2005. Wonderfully fruity and a release that truly shows off a side of the distillery that is often overlooked.
The second dram is a 1996 Vintage Arran – matured in what The Whisky Exchange thinks was a wine cask – Arran’s records apparently are a bit spotty back in the early days of filling, and the exact cask type isn’t known!
The Whisky Exchange has kindly sent me a sample of each one to try (Thanks @WhiskyExchange!)
So, what did I think? Here are my tasting notes …
Tasting Notes – Balblair 2005 – Whisky Exchange Exclusive (46%)
Balblair 2005
Region: Highland
Matured in a single cask
Cask Number: 213
Bottled: 2021
Not chill-filtered
Natural colour
180 bottles available
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Nose: Gorgeous aromatic fruits! Ripe & ready pears, green apples topped off with cane sugar syrup.
Palate: Sweet pears and apples, a little liquorice and shades of blackcurrant. Finish: Punchy spice tempered with those pears. Grapefruit adds some dryness at the end. Overall: Another quality dram from The Whisky Exchange’s ‘Exclusives’ range that doesn’t disappoint. The fruit flavours are the highlight of this dram – those pear aromas are amazing! A fresh, light whisky that’s perfect for the Summer – and long may the Sun shine! |
Tasting Notes – Arran 1996: 24 Years Old – Whisky Exchange Exclusive (53.4%)
Arran 1996: 24 Years Old
Region: Island
Matured in a wine cask (possibly!)
Cask Number: 757
Bottled: March 2021
Not chill-filtered
Natural colour
273 bottles available
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Nose: Powerful spiced orange that really dominates the nose – but only in a good way! Toffee with slight hints of smoke.
Palate: Rich mouthfeel, lots of orange, sweet vanilla, and plump fruits. Finish: A little pepper to add to the finish but in the main it’s the initial palate that continues through to the end. Overall: A beautiful dram! Incredibly morish and satisfying. It’s a rare treat at the price I know – but what a treat! |
Once again, many thanks to The Whisky Exchange (@WhiskyExchange) for the tasters!
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