Craigellachie 2012/2023 10 Years - Signatory Vintage
The Craigellachie Distillery is known for its strong, malty whiskies with plenty of structure and character. But in the hands of the independent bottler Signatory Vintage, it often becomes even more intense. At 67.4% ABV, this is a whisky that challenges connoisseurs, but also rewards them - with intense sherry flavours, dark fruits and impressive depth.
Tasting Notes
Nose
From the very first nosing, the sherry flavour literally leaps out at you. Sultanas and grilled bacon dates dominate the flavour, accompanied by a deep, leathery note reminiscent of fresh saddle leather. These are joined by chestnuts and a hint of cardamom, which add a spicy complexity. A malty bread crust also resonates, giving the whisky an additional savoury component. Although the high alcohol strength is noticeable, it does not burn aggressively, but carries the flavours with strength and elegance.
Palate
On the palate, Craigellachie is powerful and sweet, almost like a BBQ glaze on grilled meat. The sultana and date notes from the aroma continue, embedded in a strong leather structure. This is joined by a subtle roasted note reminiscent of slightly burnt sugar. Despite its strength, the whisky remains balanced - the cask gives the distillate a deep, savoury sweetness without overpowering it. With a little time in the glass, a slight dryness develops, rounding off the experience.
Finish
The finish is long, warming and complex. A combination of fruity sweetness and strong oak remains present for a long time, accompanied by a slightly bitter finish. Notes of red wine and a subtle spiciness provide additional depth. In the second wave, the whisky becomes somewhat drier, but always remains elegant and aromatic.
Thoughts
Marcel 86/100
A sherry powerhouse that really delights with its rugged edges and full blast of raisins and leather. Despite the hefty 67.4%, this Craigellachie is surprisingly approachable and develops a lovely roundness in the glass – perfect for those who enjoy their whisky intense and untamed.
Sascha 86/100
With a clear cask influence and remarkable balance between sweet sherry notes and a dry, austere character, this Craigellachie shows an impressive structure. The 67.4% ABV is well integrated, so despite its power, it never feels unbalanced but instead offers a complex and substantial profile.
Value for Money: Good
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75/100Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Craigellachie 2012/2023 with 67.4% alcohol not have an aggressive sharpness in taste?
Despite the high alcohol content of 67.4%, this whisky is carefully bottled to provide a balanced experience. The intense sherry cask maturation and complex aromas soften the sharpness, allowing the alcohol to carry the flavors without coming across as aggressive.
How does maturation in sherry casks influence the flavor of this Craigellachie whisky?
The sherry cask maturation imparts robust aromas of raisins, dates, and dark fruits, along with a hearty sweetness. Additionally, complex notes such as leather, spices, and a subtle toastiness develop, giving the character depth and structure.
What makes the Signatory Vintage bottling of this Craigellachie whisky special compared to the original release?
Signatory Vintage often selects more intense and characterful casks that make the whisky even more powerful and complex. For this Craigellachie, a cask strength of 67.4% was chosen, emphasizing the distillery’s typically robust style and adding extra depth through sherry cask notes.