In the realm of spirits competitions, the John Barleycorn Awards has swiftly carved out its niche as a standard-bearer of excellence since its inception less than a decade ago. A prestigious gathering of 36 expert judges hailing from various corners of the booze industry, this competition reviews a staggering number of liquors biannually. The panel consists of distinguished figures in spirits writing, each tasked with the formidable duty of filtering through countless offerings to crown those that rise above the rest. This year, one particularly storied scotch caught the judges’ attention: the Aberlour 18 Double Sherry Cask Finish, a nimble ruby-hued dram that has made waves across shelves, capturing the admiration of enthusiasts and critics alike.
The story of Aberlour is as rich as the whisky it produces. Established in 1879 in the picturesque village of Aberlour alongside the River Spey, the distillery has historically specialized in crafting a distinctive medium-bodied malt. Its reputation burgeoned through the years, particularly for a flavor profile that marries fruitiness with satisfying toffee and treacle notes as the whisky matures in sherry casks. Over time, Aberlour has attracted a devoted following, thanks to its 100% sherry-matured expression known as A’Bunadh.
Interestingly, during the mid-20th century, Aberlour’s whisky was predominantly utilized to enhance Dewar’s blends, subtly imparting complexities that defined their character. Despite its contributions to the blended whisky market, the distillery maintained a humble presence until 1974, when it finally added a second pair of stills to increase production capacity which now stands at approximately 4 million liters of single malt each year. In contrast, some industry giants like Glenlivet churn out around 21 million liters, highlighting Aberlour’s dedication to quality over quantity.
Having set the historical context, it’s time to delve into the intricacies of the Aberlour 18. As the awards have rightly suggested, this particular expression possesses a character that truly differentiates it from other offerings in the whisky market. Upon pouring, a swirl reveals its aromatic complexity. The nose is welcomed with opulent scents of orange marmalade, warm sticky toffee, and the enticing essence of grilled plum—an inviting introduction that pulls you right into a sensory experience.
Going beyond the initial aromatic impressions, the palate expands further with dark fruits showcasing their presence prominently. A medley of dates and blackcurrants leads the sipping adventurous journey, which reveals a quintessentially sherried foundation attributable to the double cask aging—comprising both Pedro Ximénez (PX) and Oloroso casks. These well-regarded cask types add depth and richness, essential traits for sherry-aged spirits, paving the way for subsequent complex flavor development.
However, as your tasting venture nears its conclusion, a delightful surprise awaits. The Aberlour 18 transitions seamlessly to intricate layers of spice, with notes of anise, nutmeg, and dark chocolate that dance on the palate, keeping the experience both engaging and memorable. The finish lingers elegantly, accompanied by a touch of charred custard sweetness that tempts a final reflective sip. This complexity is indeed the hallmark of a refined whisky, compelling one to ponder bit by bit until the last drop is gone.
With a price tag situated around $229, the Aberlour 18 demands a deeper contemplation about its value proposition. For aficionados of sherried whisky, this might pose as an enticing yet justified investment. The meticulous craftsmanship and storied history that flow through every bottle are attributes that elevate it above many competitors. The pleasure derived from its layered tasting experience certainly merits taking the plunge.
The Aberlour 18 Double Sherry Cask Finish not only exemplifies what the John Barleycorn Awards stand for in the spirits industry but also encapsulates the rich journey of whisky-making that Aberlour has embraced since its inception. For whisky lovers who appreciate a finely aged, full-bodied dram, this masterpiece promises to be a noteworthy addition to the collection.