Fettercairn Vanguard First Release - 46.3%

From the distillery website

An exciting evolution of the Scottish Oak Programme, the spirit began its journey on February 28, 2008, when Fettercairn new make was laid down to mature in first fill ex-bourbon barrels at the distillery. The whisky remained in these casks for 14 years in warehouses 1 and 2, developing Fettercairn's signature tropical house style with ripe and fresh tropical fruit flavours and aromas.

The whisky was then transferred into hybrid casks made from American oak staves and medium to heavily toasted Scottish oak heads, imparting sweet vanilla and wood spice characteristics. After finishing for two years in these handmade casks, the spirit was carefully married with 8-year-old, hand selected first fill ex-bourbon barrels. 

Tasting notes:

Appearance: The colour of oak aged Chardonnay, forms a thick line which beads before falling slowly as thick, oily legs

Nose: Tropical fruit, particularly pineapple and mango, honey, vanilla custard slices and a hint of nutmeg

Palate: Creamy mouthfeel. Pineapple upside down cake, ripe mango, honeyed breakfast cereal, crème brûlée and a touch of apricot jam

Finish: Roasted malt, softly drying oak, nutmeg, gentle pepper and cinnamon warmth

Overall: An interesting whisky, fruity, laced with baking spices and a layer of creamy vanilla which brings it all together. The higher abv really helps bring out the best of the Fettercairn character, bringing a delightful mouthfeel which lingers on the palate long after sipping. 

It’s limited edition and part of a series which seems to be a factor in it having a price at the time of writing of £100. It’s a nice whisky, but it just doesn’t do enough for me to justify spending that much on a bottle.

If you would like more information on this whisky, or the Fettercairn distillery, follow the link to the company website