Aberfeldy 1999 "Snuffed Candle" (Wemyss Malts)

Aberfeldy 1999 "Snuffed Candle", 15 YO, 46 %

I am happy to present the dram of the day, a brand new release from independent bottler Wemyss Malts. The Aberfeldy 1999 "Snuffed Candle" was announced on February 9, 2015.

Aberfeldy is a Highland distillery, founded in 1866 and currently owned by the John Dewar & Sons (Bacardi). Aberfeldy is a major component in the Dewar's blends. They did not release their first official single malt bottling until 1991, a 15 YO in the Flora & Fauna series (Diageo). Diageo actually owned the distillery up until 1998.

In 2014 Aberfeldy re-launched their core range, and it now consists of a 12 YO and a 21 YO. In addition they have an 18 YO that is Travel Retail only.

This whisky was distilled in 1999, bottled in 2014, and matured in an unspecified hogshead. The total outturn was 379 bottles.

The Aberfeldy 1999 "Snuffed Candle" is not yet available to buy in Norway or Sweden, but it should appear shortly - I hope.

Nose (22/25): Very soft and delicate. A really nutty nose - I find both dry peanut shells and more oily nuttiness. Caramel and red berries. Oatmeal crackers, breakfast cereal and barley wine.

Taste (21/25): Ginger flavored strawberries covered with white pepper, fizzy bits of ginger and a mist of prosecco. Cracked black peppercorns and caramel.

Finish (22/25): Peppery caramel. Barley wine, and fun little taste explosions dancing on my tongue. Fizzy and sparkly. Warm and long finish.

Balance (21/25): This was a fun dram. Dancing, spirited and entertaining.

Score (86/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas