Craigellachie 13 Years Bas-Armagnac Cask Finish
The 13-years single malt was post-matured in Armagnac casks from the Bas-Armagnac region - one of the three French Armagnac regions. The distillery still uses traditional worm tubs to cool the distillate. Although this is not as efficient and low-maintenance as newer condensation methods, it still gives the malt a special note.
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Buy on AmazonTasting Notes
Nose
The Speysider opens with lemongrass, a little honey and hay. This is joined by a colourful mix of tropical fruits, such as coconut and pineapple. The nose is rounded off by almonds, a light note of cinnamon and minimal toasted aromas.
Palate
Bitter, really bitter and tart like green apple in bitter almond sauce tastes the 13 years single malt. A small peppery and salty portion of brown rice mixed with synthetic lemon form an exotic flavour profile. You have to like it.
Finish
The medium-long finish then convinces again with slightly fruity and citrusy aromas with a hint of oak.
Thoughts
Marcel 79/100 - (Very good)
If you enjoy intense bitterness, this one will be right up your alley – for everyone else, the Craigellachie 13 with Bas-Armagnac finish is more of a challenge. The fruity hints are present but get lost in the bitter-sour profile. A dramatic character that will definitely divide opinions.
Sascha 77/100 - (Very good)
The balance of the Craigellachie 13 Years in Bas-Armagnac Cask Finish feels somewhat uneven due to the dominant bitterness and sour notes. The finish could be more intense in terms of Armagnac fruitiness to better highlight the complex structure. Overall, a solid but not entirely rounded release.
Value for Money: 4/5 (Good)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Bas-Armagnac cask finish influence the flavor of the Craigellachie 13 Years?
The Bas-Armagnac cask finish imparts additional fruity notes and a complex acidity typical of the region. This gives the Craigellachie 13 Years an exotic fruitiness with hints of tropical fruits and a slightly sour bitterness that complements the classic Speyside profile.
Why does Craigellachie still use traditional worm tubs to cool the distillate?
Craigellachie uses traditional worm tubs because, although they are less efficient than modern condensation methods, they lend the whisky a richer, oilier texture and more distinctive roasted aromas. This contributes to a robust and unmistakable flavor.
Which aromas dominate the flavor of the Craigellachie 13 Years Bas-Armagnac Cask Finish?
The flavor is dominated by a bitter, sour note of green apple and bitter almond, accompanied by peppery and salty nuances as well as a synthetic lemon note. The finish is medium-length with fruity and citrus aromas, rounded off by a touch of oak.