Finglassie 8 Years 2017/2025 - James Eadie
In the rolling hills of the Scottish Lowlands, where mist settles over the fields like a silky veil, something extraordinary is created at the InchDairnie Distillery. James Eadie's Finglassie 8 Years 2017/2025 can easily compete with the much more expensive Lagavulin Single Casks.
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Buy on AmazonTasting Notes
Nose
The magic of this extraordinary single malt is revealed from the very first sniff. The warm smoke of a campfire envelops the senses like a blanket on a cold autumn evening. Caramel and the delicate scent of cherries dance together, while raisins tell their sweet story. A hint of neck steak mingles with paprika-like notes and the unexpected charm of baked feta cheese.
Palate
The palate unfolds a rich and full-bodied experience that immediately brings to mind the best whiskies – yes, Lagavulin-esque notes are noticeable. This Lowlander has obviously learned from the great Islay whiskies. The warming effect of the high alcohol content is never intrusive, but blends harmoniously into the voluminous flavour profile. Dried fruit and candied figs give the whisky an almost Mediterranean sweetness, while light maritime notes evoke distant shores.
Finish
The long-lasting finish is a poem in itself. Spicy notes blend with nutty aromas, while plums and cinnamon write the final chapter of this flavourful story.
Thoughts
Marcel 83/100 - (Excellent)
This Finglassie is a genuine mood booster: smoky, sweet, and with a surprisingly lively spiciness that makes any whisky lover's heart race. For just under 80 euros, you get not only a lot of character but also a generous dose of drinking pleasure – a true hidden gem from the Lowlands that can easily hold its own against the great Islay classics.
Sascha 86/100 - (Excellent)
A remarkably well-balanced Lowlander that impresses with precise cask selection and a clear flavor profile. The harmonious integration of sweet dried fruits, smoky notes, and spicy accents makes the Finglassie 8 Years a technically accomplished whisky that, with its structure and long-lasting finish, performs above average for its price range.
Value for Money: 4/5 (Good)
Discover our value for money winnersThis product was kindly provided to us by Kirsch Import. This does not influence our rating. No payments or other benefits were received in exchange for this provision.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does the high alcohol strength of 57.9% affect the enjoyment of the Finglassie 8 Years?
The high alcohol strength delivers an intense aromatic profile and a warming effect that is well integrated, supporting the full-bodied flavor without coming across as overpowering.
What unique characteristics make the Finglassie 8 Years from the Lowlands stand out compared to other single malts?
Despite its Lowlands origin, the Finglassie 8 Years exhibits smoky, maritime, and Lagavulin-like notes more commonly associated with Islay whiskies, making it distinctive and versatile.
Why are unusual nose notes like baked feta cheese and paprika perceptible?
These unusual aromas arise from the combination of special cask maturation and complex aging, which give the whisky a unique depth and a wide range of flavor nuances.