Craigellachie 2013/2024 Margaux Cask London Showcase 2024 - Berry Bros. & Rudd
The Scottish Speyside is known for its diverse and complex whiskies, but the Craigellachie 2013/2024 Margaux Cask sets new standards. This exclusive bottling from the independent bottler Berry Bros & Rudd combines the striking characteristics of the Craigellachie Distillery with the sophistication of a Margaux cask.
Tasting Notes
Nose
When the glass is lifted for the first time, intense, fruity aromas emerge. The impression of fresh strawberry smoothie dominates the nose and is perfectly complemented by a creamy note of cream. This gives the whisky an almost dessert-like quality. Subtle notes of caramel and fig add depth, while the red forest berries provide freshness. The winey influence of the Margaux cask is particularly noteworthy. It brings an elegant, slightly tart note that balances the sweetness perfectly. As soon as you smell it, you realise that this whisky is more than just a typical Speyside single malt - it is a promise of complexity.
Palate
The first sip confirms the expectations and even exceeds them. The whisky starts with ripe plums and dark chocolate - a combination that provides depth and sensuality. But the experience does not end here: the pleasant oak tannins provide a tart counterpoint that balances out the sweetness of the malt notes. The red berries, which were already present in the aroma, also play a leading role in the flavour. They provide a fruity freshness that adds vibrancy to the heavy notes. The alcohol is perfectly integrated, adding an additional intensity without overwhelming the palate. Rather, it enhances the nuances and makes the Craigellachie 2013/2024 a multi-layered experience.
Finish
The finish is a highlight in itself. It lingers, warms the palate and unfolds a multi-faceted interplay of strong, slightly bitter oak and dark chocolate. A subtle, ‘dirty’ note - signature of Craigellachie - provides character and individuality. It is this slightly earthy quality that makes the whisky unmistakable and gives it a touch of wildness. The finish is perfectly balanced and leaves a pleasant, complex mouthfeel that invites you to take another sip.
Thoughts
Marcel 90/100
This Craigellachie 2013/2024 Margaux Cask is a true flavor explosion – playing with all the senses from fruity sweetness to robust oak. Anyone looking for a whisky with character and a touch of wildness will find a genuine taste experience here that’s not easily forgotten.
Sascha 89/100
With its balanced interplay between fruity freshness and sturdy oak tannins, the Craigellachie 2013/2024 Margaux Cask impresses through clear structure and depth. The subtle integration of the Margaux cask creates a harmonious blend of sweetness and bitterness, making this whisky a technically remarkable Speyside malt.
Value for Money: Excellent
💸 This whisky offers an outstanding value for money and is our value pick.
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71/100Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Margaux cask influence the flavor of the Craigellachie 2013/2024?
The Margaux cask imparts an elegant, slightly bitter wine note that balances the fruity sweetness and gives the whisky a layered, refined character.
Why does the Craigellachie 2013/2024 have such an intense flavor profile despite lacking an age statement?
Although no age is stated, maturation in the Margaux cask combined with the natural character of the Craigellachie distillery results in a complex mix of fruity, sweet, and bitter notes with great depth.
Which typical characteristics of the Craigellachie distillery are evident in this whisky?
Typical for Craigellachie is the slightly 'dirty', earthy note on the finish as well as the strong, bitter oak tone, which give the whisky its unmistakable wildness and character.