Arran 10 Years
Arran Distillery was established on the Isle of Arran in the mid 90's. Some of the casks were stored at Springbank until the recent expansion of the warehouses. The casks are now on site and a second distillery (Lagg) has been built. Today we taste the 10 years Core Range bottling.
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To the Amazon pageTasting Notes
Nose
The nose is flattering and complex. Strong vanilla from ex-bourbon casks is at the forefront. This is joined by honey, pear and sweet, fruity lemon juice. The aroma develops into an almost waxy sensation on the nose. We find ripe peaches and grated coconut. In the background there is a slight herbal note, reminiscent of green tea.
Palate
On the palate, Arran 10 is a great combination of full-bodied, oily and velvety. Fresh fruit aromas of mango and pineapple join the coconut note we picked up on the nose. The malt is fresh and cereal-like, like a bowl of muesli. Again, the vanilla is very prominent.
Finish
There is a wonderful oak kick on the finish. A slight crispness lingers on the palate in the medium-long finish, accompanied by intense, slightly bitter lemon zest.
Thoughts
Marcel 87/100
The Arran 10 surprises with its fruity freshness and creamy vanilla notes – a genuine pleasure that leaves you wanting more. Whether you're a beginner or a connoisseur, it’s a charming companion that makes drinking fun, even if it doesn’t astonish at every turn. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an uncomplicated, lively single malt.
Sascha 82/100
Structurally, the Arran 10 displays a balanced harmony between sweet vanilla, fruity notes, and a pleasantly present spicy oak finish. Despite its solid complexity, it sometimes lacks the depth of focus to truly stand out, but remains a reliable core range bottling with good value for money.
Value for Money: Excellent
💸 This whisky offers an outstanding value for money and is our value pick.
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86/100Frequently Asked Questions
How does maturation in ex-bourbon casks influence the flavor of the Arran 10 Years?
Maturation in ex-bourbon casks imparts the Arran 10 Years with its distinctive vanilla note as well as sweet aromas of honey and fruity lemon juice. These casks also contribute to the oily, velvety texture and the fruity nuances.
What unique characteristics does the location of the Arran Distillery on the Isle of Arran bring?
The Isle of Arran offers a cool, humid climate with proximity to the sea, which influences the whisky’s maturation. The fresh air and maritime environment promote a balanced development of fruity and spicy aromas.
Why were some of the casks initially stored at Springbank, and how does this affect the whisky?
Before the expansion of its own warehouses, casks were stored at the nearby Springbank Distillery to ensure proper maturation. This collaboration left no direct flavor traces but served quality assurance during the early phase.