Macduff 20 Years - The Observatory
The Observatory 20 years is from the signature series of the bottler of the same name. Belonging to the Bacardi Group, this Single Grain Scotch whisky was created by the master blender of the Aberfeldy distillery Stephanie Macleod.It is believed that the single grain was distilled at the MacDuff distillery in the Scottish Highlands near the lighthouse in Banff Bay. The whisky was stored for 20 full years in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. The long storage period is said to make the whisky particularly soft and pleasantly complex.
Tasting Notes
Nose
A very sweet and vanilla note greets the nose. Later, lemon curd and spicy oak follow in the background. Surprisingly, we also perceive a sharp ethanol note. Slightly sour aromas support the composition, which is reminiscent of a sponge cake roll.
Palate
Foam sugar and marshmallows dominate the taste. Rounded off by a present oaky component, the Single Grain is very delicate. The whole thing is sweetened by a fair amount of forest honey.
Finish
The medium-long finish is vanilla, spicy and slightly bitter.
Thoughts
Marcel 69/100
The Macduff 20 Year pleasantly surprises with its sweet vanilla note and playful marshmallow flavor – a delight that’s fun to drink, though it lacks a bit of depth. For under 20 euros, it’s a charming companion offering straightforward drinking pleasure without being overly complex.
Sascha 71/100
A well-structured single grain with a clear balance between sweet vanilla tones, spicy oak, and a slight bitterness on the finish. The 20 years of maturation are evident, yet in terms of complexity and smoothness, the Macduff 20 Year could have shown a bit more character.
Value for Money: Good
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66/100Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes a single grain whisky like the Macduff 20 Year from single malt whiskies?
Single grain whiskies are typically made from various grains alongside barley and are distilled in continuous stills, resulting in a lighter and often softer character. In contrast, single malt whisky is made exclusively from malted barley and distilled in pot stills, producing more intense aromas.
How does maturation in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks influence the flavor of this whisky?
The combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks imparts a balanced complexity: bourbon casks contribute vanilla and sweet notes, while sherry casks add spicy, fruity, and nutty aromas. Together, they create the soft and layered flavor profile of the Macduff 20 Year.
Why is there a sharp ethanol note on the nose of the Macduff 20 Year despite its 20 years of aging?
Despite the long maturation, single grain whiskies bottled at 40% ABV can sometimes exhibit a slight ethanol sharpness, especially if not bottled at a higher strength. This sharpness often reflects the distillation method and the grain mix used.