We met last night, a few whisky friends and lovers for our “monthly” tasting that takes place ever few months (we suck, yeah). This time the “theme” was BYOB Speyside. We started the evening with this Crag DE, which I have not tasted in a long time, It was the lightest in terms of ABV I think (and non peated) so sounded like a nice start to “warm the engines”. I quite like some of the DE, but they seem like random finishes to malts, not always complementing them. Lagavulin DE is nice, so is Coal Ila, and Talisker, some can be Meh, though.
Cragganmore 1996 Port Wood Finish , 40% abv , Sold out in most places.
Nose: The nose is rather nice, with some sweet aromas, yet it is very subdued. I am not sure which casks were used for the finish,but they were obviously a bit “tired”. Takes some time and effort to get distinctive aromas (mind you this was a brand new bottle, we opened that night). Some malty notes, with hints of orange, and fresh fruit, vanilla. quite nice, but not spectacular. a bit “tired” at 40% I am afraid.
Palate: The palate does feel much more alcoholic and rough, I’d never guess it’s a 40% dram. You get some fruit (pear, apple, a hint of peach), vanilla, malt, and a bit of pepper. I must say the Port did not do this one justice.
Finish: Pretty short, fruity and sweet and a hint of spice.
Not very memorable, and certainly not a lot of Port effect in this one. I think I prefer the original 12 year old Crag to this one. Quite disappointing to be honest.