Craigellachie 2013/2024 - Malts of Scotland
Rich, Dried Fruits2025-03-02

Smell
Right from the start, this whisky delivers a whirlwind of aromas. Plums, figs, and dates create an intense sweetness, while morello cherries add a darker fruit note. There are also hints of leather, tobacco, and something reminiscent of a long-heated grain pillow – warm, spicy, and slightly nutty.
Taste
The first sip is a full-on sherry explosion. Sweet, fruity flavors dominate the tip of the tongue before transitioning into old leather sofas, Cognac-like notes, and tobacco leaves. The texture is creamy, almost oily, yet it quickly dries out. Aged oak brings a strong spiciness, while slightly burnt notes add a smoky-bitter accent. Somewhere in between, rust and machine oil play a subordinate role.
Finish
Long and intense. The oak spice builds up further, but the sweetness remains – this time more like heather honey and caramel. The whisky fades out with dry, spicy oak, leaving a lingering warmth.
Thoughts
The Craigellachie 2013/2024 is a powerful sherry cask release, not for the faint of heart. The combination of sweet fruit notes, dry oak, and bold spice creates an intense tasting experience. This whisky leans towards the aged, spicy side of the sherry spectrum – a bit rough around the edges, but full of character.
For fans of strong, untamed sherry cask whiskies, this Craigellachie is a must-try. Those looking for the velvety elegance of older sherry maturations might find it a bit challenging. But that’s exactly what makes it so exciting.
Rating: 83/100 - Excellent (Marcel: 81 | Sascha: 85)
Value for Money: 5/5 - Very Good
Further Information
Cask Type: Refill Sherry HogsheadCask Number: MoS 24022