Aberlour A’bunadh Batch #54

Aberlour A’bunadh Batch #54, NAS, 60,7 %

Aberlour A'bunadh is a long-running series of affordable, available and lovely No Age Statement (NAS) whisky. I have tried a good number of the batches that have been released so far, starting with Batch #3, many years ago. I have hardly ever been disappointed, in fact - most of the time I have been very impressed.

Today I am reviewing Aberlour A’bunadh Batch #54. Unfortunately this is one of many batches in the series that clock in just above 60 % ABV, and as such they are not available to buy in Norway.

It is a little bit unclear which batch they are currently selling in Sweden. The given ABV would indicate that they are now selling batch 54. A bit strange as I bought batch 55 in Sweden a few months back. I guess this qualifies as a First World problem...

Anyways, the current price in Sweden is SEK 642 (44501). Batch #54 is sold out in the UK, and it appears Batch #57 is the current one on sale, at around GBP 47.

Nose: Dark and ominous! Nah, just dark and sweet. Lots of dried fruits like dates, raisins, and figs. It almost smells sticky. I also find chocolate, red berries and leather. Then there's a certain spiciness, and it reminds me of a cold, mulled wine - if that makes sense. Cinnamon and cardamom. Ginger and oranges upon a re-visit.

Taste: Smooth and massive mouthfeel. This is big in flavour, as expected and desired. Rich sherry notes of the sweet kind - not too dramatic and heavy. Spices, honey and orange zest. Again with the mulled wine character - although the mulled wine is no longer cold.

Finish: Medium long finish. Distinctly green towards the end - think grass and mint. Actually, think After Eight mint chocolate dropped in a glass of rich sherry.

Comments: Yep, I am still a big fan of the Aberlour A'bunadh series.

Score (88/100)

Image from Master of Malt.

Sláinte! - Thomas