Ruadh Maor 2011/2024 Jack the Ripper - Malts of Scotland
Anyone expecting a gentle drop from a Highland whisky such as the Ruadh Maor 2011/2024 Jack the Ripper from Malts of Scotland is in for a surprise. With an intensely smoky profile, this independent bottler from the Glenturret distillery brings a real heavyweight to the glass.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The Ruadh Maor reveals its complexity from the very first sniff. Dark fruits such as ripe plums and a hint of blackberries mingle with an intense smoke that is strongly reminiscent of Islay whiskies. The iodised, almost medicinal notes are also striking - an impression of plaster and camomile pervades the aroma. A green apple brings a subtle freshness, while warm, woody notes of sandalwood emphasise the depth.
Palate
The first sip is a powerful prelude: Spicy oak notes meet sweet liquorice and the dark fruits from the nose. The smoke remains present, accompanied by a maritime saltiness that reinforces the Islay feeling. A hint of forest honey provides an unexpected, pleasant sweetness and perfectly balances the spicy intensity.
Finish
In the finish, the whisky remains maritime and spicy, but without being too overpowering. The saltiness gives it a refreshing finish, while the smoke lingers for a short time. The finish is of medium length and leaves a balanced memory of wood, smoke and sea breeze.
Thoughts
Marcel 81/100
A Highland whisky that really lifts the spirits with its smoky power play and sweet sherry note. Ruadh Maor 2011/2024 Jack the Ripper isn’t a cuddly dram, but a characterful one that delights with maritime freshness and robust smoke – perfect for anyone who likes to try something different while still focusing on enjoyment.
Sascha 84/100
With its balanced interplay of intense smokiness, maritime saltiness, and complex fruit notes, the Ruadh Maor 2011/2024 Jack the Ripper impresses as a structured Highland whisky. The harmonious fusion of sweetness, spice, and oak delivers a precise, multi-layered tasting experience with a long-lasting elegant finish.
Value for Money: Fair
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Why does the Ruadh Maor 2011/2024 Jack the Ripper remind one of an Islay whisky despite originating from the Highlands?
Although Ruadh Maor comes from the Glenturret distillery in the Highlands, it features a heavily smoky profile with iodine and maritime notes typical of Islay whiskies. This is due to the special cask maturation and the influence of the independent bottler Malts of Scotland, who deliberately presents the whisky with an intense smoky and sea character.
How does the high alcohol content of 55.6% affect the taste and drinking experience of this whisky?
The 55.6% alcohol content delivers a powerful and intense flavor explosion that highlights the spicy oak notes, the sweetness of licorice and honey, as well as the smoky and maritime aromas. It can make the whisky robust and complex, which is why many enthusiasts add a few drops of water to better unfold the flavors.
What makes the Ruadh Maor 2011/2024 Jack the Ripper an interesting whisky for experienced connoisseurs?
This whisky stands out due to its unusual combination of intense smokiness, iodine-tinged medicinal hints, and a harmonious balance of sweet and spicy notes. The maritime-salty finish and the layered aroma profile ranging from dark fruits to sandalwood offer seasoned whisky lovers a complex and distinctive tasting experience.