Aberfeldy 2021 18 Year Old French Red Wine Casks
Rich, Dried Fruits2025-01-20
Smell
Even the nosing of this whisky is an experience. Notes of dates and figs rise to the nose, carried by a gentle hint of light-coloured grapes and clove. An interesting ‘sandy’ undertone is reminiscent of a walk in an autumn landscape - earthy, slightly rough and inviting at the same time. After the first sip, increasingly fruity flavours unfold, intensifying the impression.
Taste
On the tongue, the Aberfeldy 18 year old is initially creamy - almost like a velvety wine. But then the Highlands make their unmistakable mark: oak and a hint of coloured pepper provide a spicy base, accompanied by subtle notes of red fruit. The slightly vinous note from the maturation in French red wine casks adds an elegant dimension without being too dominant.
Finish
And then comes the finish - wow! The interplay of flavours reaches its climax here. A clear strawberry note leads into raspberry ice cream before everything dissolves into a creamy, spicy warmth. The strong spiciness leaves a lasting impression that lingers on the palate for minutes afterwards.
Thoughts
Aberfeldy 18 year old impressively demonstrates how a whisky can benefit from spicy sherry notes and fruity complexity. Particularly fascinating: with time in the glass, it gains in fruitiness, which makes every new tasting an experience. Lovers of intense and complex whiskies will be more than satisfied.
This whisky is not a simple sipper - it invites you to engage with it and experience the development of its flavours.
The Aberfeldy 2021, 18 years French Red Wine Casks harmonises perfectly with duck breast in a red wine reduction, as the fruity notes of the whisky elegantly pick up on the flavours of wine and meat. For dessert, raspberry ice cream with dark chocolate complements the berry and creamy finish.
Rating: 87/100 - Excellent (Marcel: 87 | Sascha: 86)
Value for Money: 4/5 - Good
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Further Information
Bottling Series: Finished in French Red Wine CasksCask Type: Côte-Rôtie red wine casks
Cask Number: Batch 2921