Arran 17 Year Old 1996 Malts of Scotland

Boy, the kids at Malts of Scotland really got it into their heads to bottle new (to them) stuff this time around. After the Teaninich and Fettercairn, they now also launch there very first malt from the Isle of Arran. That means they acquired the cask rather early, it is from 1996. Let us not forget that Arran was founded only in 1994 and production did not start until 1995. It is a very pale dram, despite being from a sherry cask.

It is ultrasoft on the nose, despite the high ABV. Starts gentle on sweet malt and something floral, before evolving into pear syrup, nuts and plum marmalade. Semolina pudding with lots of raisins. Grandma used to make it for me. Well, I digress. Twig of mint. Fresh.

It is creamy on fiery on the palate. Nuts and raisins, again, but also some dried apricots. Mint returns. Cloves. Hint of marzipan. Like!

The finish is rather short and my only point of criticism.

It will cost you around 60 EUR.

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