Nc'nean Aon Calvados 2017/2025
Nose
Cotton candy is the first association that comes to mind – light, almost ethereal, yet with a substantial presence. Underneath lies a thick layer of honey and caramel, which gives the whole thing an almost creamy texture even before you take your first sip.
But the real magic unfolds when you give the whisky time. Juicy apple juice, freshly pressed and lively, pushes to the fore – here the Calvados heritage is unmistakable. It is not the perfumed sweetness of ripe apples, but the juicy freshness of crisp autumn fruits. Subtle oak notes play around the fruity centre like a restrained wooden frame around a lively painting. The high alcohol content is noticeable, but never aggressive – rather, it enhances the aromas and carries them powerfully to the nose.
Taste
Lots of apple, lots and lots of apple. The fruitiness of the nose continues, taking on a slightly compote-like quality without losing its freshness. Interestingly, a slight dryness develops in parallel, giving the sweet apple core contour and preventing the whisky from becoming too one-dimensionally sweet.
Well-integrated vanilla notes form the foundation of this explosion of flavour – creamy, round, perfectly balanced. The honey spice that was already present on the nose comes into its own on the palate: non-stop, continuous, like a sweet melody that runs through the entire tasting. Oak spice joins in, never dominant, but always present.
Finish
Long-lasting, a very exciting wood note develops, contrasting with the subtle oak on the palate. This is where the complexity of barrel ageing comes into play: the Calvados barrels have not only imparted fruitiness, but also their own structure.
Thoughts
The Nc'nean Aon Calvados 2017/2025 is a whisky that may polarise opinion, but it's a big hit with us. Its beautiful depth is surprising for a malt that is only seven years old, its wonderful sweetness makes it accessible and seductive, while the exciting twist provided by the Calvados casks gives it character and uniqueness. This is not a whisky for purists looking for classic Highland profiles.
Rating: 82/100 - Excellent (Marcel: 82 | Sascha: 82)
Value for Money: 2/5 - Expensive
Preview Image Source: Whiskybase
FAQ: The Most Common Questions
❓ How does this whisky differ from classic Highland malts?
👉 The Calvados cask finish makes all the difference. While classic Highland whiskies are often characterised by honey, heather and subtle fruitiness, Calvados maturation brings an intense, juicy apple fruitiness and additional complexity. Nc'nean is sweeter, fruitier and more experimental than traditional Highlands – perfect for those looking for something different.