Frequently Asked Questions
Experience the pinnacle of Speyside craftsmanship with the Cragganmore Distillers Collection 2020 Single Malt Scotch Whisky, a 20-year-old gem from Diageo's lauded "Rare by Nature" Special Release series. Expertly matured in a harmonious blend of refill and freshly charred American oak casks, this limited-edition whisky showcases complexity with vibrant aromas of lemon peel, ripe pear, and vanilla custard balanced by subtle hints of oak and smoke. Bottled at a natural cask strength of 55.8% ABV, its velvety texture reveals a symphony of juicy pineapple, honey, and spicy ginger, finishing with whispers of white chocolate and smoky elegance. Perfect for collectors and connoisseurs, this rare release is a testament to Cragganmore's legacy of producing some of the most intricate single malts in Scotland.
Process & Profile
Cragganmore Distillers Collection 2020 showcases the brand's rich heritage and meticulous craftsmanship. The whisky has been double matured in Port casks, which significantly enhances its complexity and depth. Distilled in 2008 and bottled in 2020, this limited-edition Scotch benefits from 12 years of refinement, allowing it to develop a balance of rich and intricate flavors. The whisky retains Cragganmore's signature style, blending Speyside's tradition of lightly peated malt with the sophisticated character brought by unique flat-top pot stills. Bottled at an approachable 40% ABV, this expression is ideal for those seeking an elegant yet nuanced whisky experience.Tasting Notes
- Nose: Aromas of buttery biscuits, honey, and bright citrus fruits intermingle with hints of dried fruit and subtle oak.
- Palate: Layers of red fruits, caramel, and toffee dominate, rounded out by the sweetness of plums, dark chocolate, and gentle spice from the oak.
- Finish: Medium to long, with lingering impressions of smoky maltiness, dried fruit, and a touch of Port-induced sweetness.
What Makes It Special
The Cragganmore Distillers Collection 2020 stands out for its masterful use of Port cask finishing. This process accentuates its natural fruitiness while introducing layers of complexity, such as dried fruits and oaky spices. It is also part of Diageo's exclusive Distillers Edition range, which celebrates double maturation to elevate the whisky's flavor profile. Additionally, Cragganmore's historic flat-top stills and traditional wooden washbacks play a pivotal role in shaping the whisky's delicate yet intricate character. Combined with its limited edition status and origins in one of Speyside's most illustrious distilleries, this whisky embodies exclusivity and craftsmanship.How to Enjoy
To fully appreciate the nuanced flavors of Cragganmore Distillers Collection 2020:- Neat: Best enjoyed neat to savor the layers of fruit, chocolate, spice, and smoke.
- With Water: Adding a few drops of water enhances its aroma, softens the palate, and unveils hidden flavors.
- Paired: Pair with rich dishes such as smoked meats, chocolate desserts, or fruit tarts to complement its fruity and smoky profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unique about Cragganmore Distillers 2020 Single Malt Scotch Whisky?
The 2020 release is known for its exceptional balance and complexity, achieved through its maturation in refill and new, freshly-charred casks, giving it a distinct flavor profile of juicy fruits, hints of smoke, and creamy vanilla. It is bottled at natural cask strength of 55.8% ABV, showcasing its pure and unaltered character.
What are the tasting notes of this whisky?
The nose features soft lemon peel, vanilla custard, a touch of Greek yogurt with honey, and a hint of oak shavings. On the palate, creamy vanilla blends with juicy fruits like pineapple and grapefruit, complemented by honey, lemon peel, white chocolate, and a whisper of smoke. The finish is balanced, with notes of wood spice and cocoa.
How does Cragganmore achieve its unique flavor profile?
Cragganmore's distinct flavor comes from its flat-topped pot stills, which encourage reflux, and the use of wooden washbacks during fermentation. Additionally, the distillery uses worm tub condensers, which help retain heavier compounds, contributing to its rich and complex taste.
What makes this release part of the "Rare by Nature" collection?
The "Rare by Nature" theme highlights whiskies crafted with unique production methods and exceptional cask selection. The Cragganmore 2020 release exemplifies this through its carefully chosen maturation casks and its natural cask strength, presenting a limited-edition, high-quality single malt.
How should this whisky be served?
This whisky is best enjoyed neat to appreciate its full flavor complexity. Adding a small amount of water can help open up the aromas and soften the palate for a more relaxed tasting experience.
Where is the Cragganmore Distillery located?
The distillery is situated in the Speyside region of Scotland, near the River Spey. It has a rich history, being established in 1869 by John Smith, one of the most celebrated distillers of his time.
Is this whisky suitable for collectors?
Yes, the Cragganmore Distillers Collection 2020 is a limited-edition release, making it a sought-after bottle for whisky collectors. Its distinctive packaging and award-winning reputation enhance its appeal to connoisseurs.
What food pairings work best with this whisky?
Given its fruity, creamy, and slightly smoky character, this whisky pairs well with soft cheeses, smoked salmon, or dark chocolate desserts to complement its depth and complexity.
What is the alcohol content of this whisky?
The natural cask strength of the 2020 release is 55.8% ABV, providing a bold and concentrated flavor experience.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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