Murray's taste notes for Craigellachie 13, 46% abv.

[Quaich1]

Here are my own taste notes for Craigellachie 13 year, 46% abv., ex-bourbon casks entirely.

Color: Sunny gold

Nose: Fruity demeanor highlighted by banana cake, pineapple surprise, demerara essences, honey dew melon, and lichee nuts in syrup. This shifts to Southern fried chicken and spices for a moment. Now we go to baked apples with just a hint of nutmeg. Candied pears, butterscotch and citrus hues then fill the frame along with ripe cantaloupe. Vanilla bean ice cream charges in later.

Taste: Full-bodied. A spice halo tops the underlying layer of peppery notes. There is a warming effect here. A sugar n' spice tone surfaces . Paprika opens an eye and adds to the intensity. The fruity dynamic breaking the surface again with toasted oak and a sprig of mint.

Finish: Long, spice and pepper elements in particular maintain their vision. A return to stewed fruit follows with cherry danish pastry with delectable strips of white icing sugar.

Comments: The 46% abv. on this one appears to be just right. The nose has a level of complexity which folds together with palate and finish to achieve the desired balance. This whisky has a lot to offer.

Rating: 85
_________________
"Always carry a large flagon of whisky in case of snakebite and furthermore always carry a small snake."
W.C. Fields (1880-1946)

[James T]

I have a bottle of the Craigellachie 17 in the cupboard which I bought after tasting, I will open it some day soon.

[cdn_dram]

Tried this today for the first time. Really seems to come alive with just a touch of water. Impressed so far especially for the price here.

[Olorin]

Had this over Christmas with an Uncle. Loved it so bought a bottle for myself but not got round to drinking much of it yet. Thanks for the tasting notes!

[Quaich1]