Calchou - 43%

 

Something from the depths of the sample cupboard, and this one is a real curiosity. Called ‘Finest Orkney Malt’, there is very little information available as to whether it’s a single malt or a blend of the two Orkney distilleries.

Calchou takes its name from the old name for Kelso in the Scottish Borders, which was the home of its producer, Roxburgh Holdings Ltd. The company seems to have been relatively short lived, only operating from 1992 to 1994.

Tasting notes

Appearance: Amber gold, forms a thin line which beads before falling as thick, oily legs

Nose: Dried fruit, old leather, petrichor, dunnage floor and subtle peat smoke 

Palate: Creamy mouthfeel, California raisins, sultanas, figs, honey, liquorice, cinnamon and black pepper warmth

Finish: Mildly astringent, oak spice intertwined with liquorice, honey, cinnamon and a touch of clove oil

Overall: There’s a definite sherry, leaning towards Oloroso, influence on the whisky. At 43% it’s not in sherry bomb territory, it feels more like a finish rather than a full maturation.

As for the origins, there are elements in the finish combined with the subtle smoke that would tend to suggest Highland Park, but it could just as easily be a HP/Scapa blend.