The Aberlour 18 Year Old Double Cask Matured Single Malt Scotch is a masterful expression of Speyside elegance, blending depth and richness with exquisite balance. This premium whisky is matured in the finest Oloroso Sherry and American oak casks for 18 years, developing indulgent layers of toffee, ripe peach, and bitter orange on the nose. The palate is luxuriously smooth, featuring notes of apricot, blackcurrant jam, honey-dipped oak, and whispers of old leather, delivering perfect structure and complexity. Its long, sophisticated finish transitions from crème brûlée to a delicate oak flourish. Bottled at 43% ABV, this award-winning scotch embodies both opulence and refined craftsmanship, making it an exceptional choice for connoisseurs seeking a truly memorable sip.
Process & Profile
Aberlour 18 Year is crafted using locally sourced barley and water from the nearby Lour Burn in Scotland's Speyside region. The whisky undergoes double cask maturation, with 18 years spent aging in both Oloroso Sherry butts and American oak barrels. This meticulous process allows the whisky to absorb the essence of both woods, blending sweet, spicy, and fruity tones into a harmonious whole. The meticulous craftsmanship results in a spirit with an ABV of 43% and a glorious auburn gold hue.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Rich and inviting, with aromas of orange zest, toffee, plum jam, and ripe fruit complemented by hints of vanilla and honey.
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Palate: A beautifully structured profile featuring sweet apricot, chocolate-coated raisins, and a touch of honey balanced by deeper notes of old leather, oak, and nutmeg.
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Finish: Long and complex, the finish evolves from crème brûlée and caramel to a refined oak flourish, leaving a lasting impression of sweetness and spice.
What Makes It Special
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Double Cask Maturation: The unique aging process in both Oloroso Sherry butts and American oak barrels lends Aberlour 18 its extraordinary complexity and depth.
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Rich and Balanced Flavors: The interplay of dried fruits, warm spices, vanilla, and oak creates a balanced and luxurious experience that appeals to a wide range of whisky enthusiasts.
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Award-Winning Excellence: Recognized globally for its quality, Aberlour 18 has received prestigious awards, including Gold at the International Spirits Challenge and IWSC in 2024.
How to Enjoy
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Neat: Savor Aberlour 18 on its own to truly appreciate its intricate layers of flavor.
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With Water: Add a splash of water to open up its aromatic profile, enhancing the fruity and spicy notes.
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Pairings: Complement its rich character with dark chocolate or aged cheeses for a refined sensory experience.
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Cocktails: Elevate classics like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan by incorporating this premium whisky to highlight its depth and versatility.
Aberlour 18 Year Single Malt Scotch Whisky is not just a drink but an experience—a perfect symphony of tradition, craftsmanship, and flavor designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or enjoying a quiet moment, this exquisite expression is sure to elevate the occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Aberlour 18 Year Single Malt Scotch unique?
Aberlour 18 Year Scotch is matured for 18 years using a double cask method, combining traditional oak and Oloroso sherry casks. This process develops its rich and complex flavor profile with notes of dried fruits, warm spices, vanilla, and caramel. It is known for its exquisite balance of sweet and spicy characteristics, as well as its smooth and velvety texture.
What does Aberlour 18 Year taste like?
This Scotch features a rich tapestry of flavors, starting with notes of apricot, cream, and blackcurrant jam, followed by hints of honey and sweet oak. The finish is long and balanced, transitioning from crème brûlée to a gentle oak flourish. Its aroma carries notes of toffee, butterscotch, ripe peach, and bitter orange.
How is Aberlour 18 Year made?
Aberlour 18 Year is carefully crafted through a meticulous process. It starts with Scottish barley and pure spring water, followed by malting, milling, mashing, fermentation, and distillation in broad copper pot stills. The whisky is then aged in both sherry and bourbon casks, allowing it to absorb the unique qualities of each before being expertly blended by Aberlour's Master Blender.
What is the alcohol content of Aberlour 18 Year?
Aberlour 18 Year Single Malt Scotch has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 43%.
What food pairings work best with Aberlour 18 Year?
This whisky pairs beautifully with dark chocolate, aged cheeses, or dried fruits, which enhance its rich and indulgent flavor profile. It can also be enjoyed with creamy desserts like crème brûlée to complement its sweet and smooth finish.
How should Aberlour 18 Year be served?
To fully appreciate its depth and complexity, Aberlour 18 Year is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water. Adding water helps to open up its flavors and reveal additional layers of aroma and taste.
Has Aberlour 18 Year won any awards?
Yes, Aberlour 18 Year has received numerous accolades, including Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and 96 points from the International Wine & Spirits Competition, solidifying its status as a premium whisky.
What is the color of Aberlour 18 Year?
The whisky has an auburn gold or dark sherry hue, reflecting its rich aging process.
What are the distinctive features of Aberlour 18 Year's aroma?
The nose is rich and complex, with enticing notes of toffee, butterscotch, ripe peach, and bitter orange, offering a vibrant and luxurious olfactory experience.
Is Aberlour 18 Year suitable for gifting?
Absolutely, Aberlour 18 Year is a luxurious choice for gifting, given its sophisticated flavors, award-winning reputation, and elegant presentation. It's an excellent option for marking special occasions or delighting whisky enthusiasts.