Arran Machrie Moor Fingal’s Cut Quarter Cask
Another limited edition peated expression from Arran’s Lochranza distillery as a taster of what to expect from releases from the newly-built Lagg Distillery located at the southern end of the island.
This heavily-peated Arran spirit was initially aged in ex-bourbon casks before being finished in 125 litre Quarter Casks. Bottled at 46% with no age statement.
Distillery notes:
Nose: Subtle smoked almonds with summer fruits, pear and vanilla.
Palate:The influence of the Quarter Cask is evident with obvious notes of lemon zest coupled with salted caramel & smooth and creamy butterscotch, resulting from increased contact between spirit and wood. An overall sweet smoke.
Finish: Vanilla, Memorable, Sweet smoke, Earthy.
Tasting notes:
Appearance: Pale straw-gold in colour, quickly forms beads before falling as slow, thick legs.
Nose: Vanilla, light peat smoke, faint aromas of orchard fruits and honeyed malt
Palate: Hints of sweet smokiness matched with citrus, vanilla, honey, creamy caramel and the merest trace of oak.
Water isn’t necessary, but the addition of a couple of drops really enhances the luxurious, creamy mouthfeel. Add the vanilla notes and you get the feeling of eating crème brûlée.
Finish: Medium, the sweet smoke and vanilla disappearing to leave lingering spice.
Summary: This, together with the Sherry Cask expression, are great examples of the influence a cask can have on a whisky. Although peated, the 'heavy peat' is noticeably lighter than the powerhouse malts out there. It’s well balanced and one of those whiskies which proves far too easy to drink.
The final maturation in Quarter Casks has created a sweet, vanilla rich, creamy dram with a subtle hint of smoke. I really rate this one, and at the current price of £45 it’s well worth seeking out.
