Arran 2005 Champagne Grand Cru

An Arran that was finished on a champagne cask, now that is quite original, no? I do not know of any other thus finished whisky (bar the Guillon from France).

The nose is very sweet on maple syrup, sweet malt and Ricola herb candy; then it evolves towards lemon grass and roasted nuts. Just a tad spirity. Adding water offers up more grain, but also something farmy.

It turns very hot and dry pretty quickly upon arriving in the mouth, no doubt from the champagne. Yep, it even turns mildly sour from the wine. Loads of tannins as well. The mildly sweet character of Arran is completely pushed away, which is a pity. A teaspoon of water does not make things swell.

The long finish is very dry and spicy and makes me pull a face.

Maybe my expectations were a little too high? Only the nose was really pleasant. On the palate and especially in the finish, it left a lot to be desired.

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