Craigellachie 13 Year Old

Nestled in the heart of Speyside, amidst a landscape dominated by renowned distilleries, lies the lesser-known gem of Craigellachie. Surrounded by household names like Glenfiddich and Aberlour, Craigellachie quietly produces a substantial 4 million litres of spirit annually. While most of this liquid finds its way into Dewar’s blends, a precious portion is set aside for their single malt range, of which the 13-year-old expression is the youngest. Embracing an ethos described as "uncompromising, stubborn, and slightly eccentric," Craigellachie sets itself apart with the bold decision to release whiskies aged only in prime numbers — a unique approach that piques curiosity. Let's delve into the depths of this intriguing dram and see if it lives up to its reputation.

Bottle

The Craigellachie 13 arrives in a stunning bottle, adorned with a stylised, old-fashioned label reminiscent of a Victorian-era advertisement. Proudly showcasing its unusual age statement, the bottle's slightly wider and sturdier shape, coupled with its square shoulders, exudes strength and character. Intricate embossing on the shoulder and foot adds a touch of elegance, making this dram a visual delight and a promise of the sensory journey to come.

Colour

In keeping with Craigellachie's commitment to natural colouring, the whisky presents a deep hue reminiscent of Muscat or Sherry—a testament to its thirteen years of maturation in a blend of Bourbon and Sherry casks.

Nose - A robust aroma greets the senses, dominated by tropical notes of pineapple, followed by layers of sweetness that envelop the nose. There's a hint of meatiness reminiscent of honey-glazed gammon—an unexpected yet delightful surprise.

Palate - On the palate, the tropical fruitiness continues to shine, accompanied by a rich, caramelised flavour akin to burnt honey. The whisky's thick, oily texture adds to the sensory experience, coating the mouth in luxurious indulgence.

Finish - The meaty flavours linger long after the dram has been savoured, with the caramelised, burnt notes leaving a subtle hint of smoke in their wake — a fitting conclusion to this complex and satisfying whisky journey. Now give me another sip!

Overall

Having recently explored the Cragganmore 12 , I couldn't help but draw comparisons with the Craigellachie 13. However, these two whiskies couldn't be more different. While both embrace old-fashioned labelling and hail from Speyside (separated by just 10 miles), the Craigellachie stands out for its weightiness, complexity, and sheer substance. It embodies the distillery's brand promise of being "uncompromising, stubborn, and slightly eccentric," delivering a tasting experience that is truly distinctive and memorable. For whisky enthusiasts seeking something beyond the ordinary, Craigellachie 13 Year Old is a must-try — a testament to the artistry and innovation of this underrated Speyside gem.

Available from Master of Malt for around £52, or check price and availability at Amazon