Aberlour 14 Year Old 2000 Malts of Scotland ‘46’

The autumn release of Malts of Scotland has arrived. That means work for me. I will open the debates with the first Aberlour from this bottler in their so-called ‘46’-series. You have guessed it: the malt is cut to the drinking strength of 46% ABV. I am sure this was a refill bourbon hogshead, for it is the palest Aberlour I have ever seen.

The nose is surprisingly young. I get sweet malt, peanuts and patato skins. It has a weird umami edge to it and it does not convince me from the start. Let me give it some time. The nuts evolve towards the roasted variety, but then a sour edge emerge that is not to my liking. Aniseed? Pine needles? Hmm, not off to a good start.

The body is okay, but again the fruit (peach?) is overpowered by that sour edge. Lemon arrives. Loads of spices with salt & pepper in the lead. Oak. It becomes somewhat astringent, something that I would never expect from an Aberlour.

The finish burns a little before nestling itself in the throat. But the fruit never really shines through.

A strange selection. Not my cup of tea. Just under 60 EUR.