Brave New Spirits - WhiskyHeroes - Agent Ivy, Chronicles in Cadiz - 55.9%
From the bottlers
In a secret lair, hidden amidst the rolling hills of Scotland, a league of whisky artisans dons their capes (and aprons) to craft something truly extraordinary.
The WhiskyHeroes is a range of spectacular single-cask whiskies and exclusive small batches, matured only in classic bourbon and sherry casks. Each bottle is infused with a dash of mischief and a pinch of heroism.
These casks are the heroes of the whisky world, so the whiskies and the presentation of the range reflect this. Each bottle is designed to be bold. Each whisky is full of character and adventure, every release chosen for its ability to take the whisky fan on an adventure of flavors and history.
"Agent Ivy Chronicles in Cadiz" is a 12 Year Old Single Malt from Blair Athol Distillery. Finished in a 1st fill Palo Cortado Sherry Cask, it delivers deep flavours of fruits and spices at 55.9% abv. Limited to 358 bottles, it invites you to imagine Agent Ivy’s thrilling ride through Cadiz through sunlit streets and the vibrant allure of Andalusia.
Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distilled at Blair Athol Distillery
Finished in 1st fill Palo Cortado Sherry Casks
Age: 12 year old
Bottles: 358 bottles
Strength: 55.9% ABV
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Burnished gold, forms a thin line which beads before slowly falling as thick, oily legs.
Nose: Banana fritters, candied orange peel, runny honey, green grape skins and a prickle of alcohol.
Palate: Honey soaked baklava, Seville orange marmalade, stone fruit, a hint of malt loaf brings a slightly savoury note, followed by a touch of marzipan, cinnamon and a hit of peppery spice. A little water brings more creaminess, stone fruit and marzipan nuttiness at the expense of some of the heat.
Finish: Long and lingering. Jaffa cake orange filling remains long after the cinnamon spice, mild nuttiness and chilli heat subside.
Overall: On the nose it’s sweet, fruity and orange citrusy, but it’s the palate and the finish that are the real stars of the show. The typical weighty Blair Athol spirit gives it real body and a touch of savouriness and is beautifully balanced with the refined influence of the Palo Cortado cask.
This is a whisky which works well both neat and with a little water. My personal preference would be to drink this neat as it makes the most of that Jaffa cake note in the finish which seems to go on forever. Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
Transparency: Received free of charge for independent review, all opinions are my own and remain completely impartial.
