This baby was finished in wine casks. I do notice that this has become an obsession at many a distiller and that un-finished, natural malt whiskies are slowly becoming exceptions. Same in the tea or potato crisps businesses, would we add… Even at Pringles'! Colour: white wine. Nose: as expected, this is much lighter and fruitier than the old expressions, much more on pears and gooseberries, leaves (sauvignon blanc) and anything from our friends Haribo's. Fine and literally lighter, despite the extra-12 or 15%. With water: marshmallows and liquorice allsorts, plus greengage gin. Excuse me? Indeed, greengage gin does exist (soon on WF!) Mouth (neat): good, modern, fresh and fruity, much easier than the old guys, but probably more unquestionable. Jellybeans, marshmallows, pear liqueur, acacia honey and rambutans. With water: very good easy modern unsherried Speyside-style, fruity, syrupy, easy and very drinkable. The wine doesn't feel 'as wine'. Finish: medium, syrupy, a tad more on citrus and stems. A drop of rose liqueur, perhaps? Comments: I would suppose you can't quite call a Special Release 'rather a mass-pleaser', but, well, there, I just did.
BOW (88)
Cardhu, a cherished name in the world of Speyside whisky, has released an exceptional limited edition expression as part of the Diageo Special Releases 2021 lineup. The Cardhu 14 Years Old offers whisky enthusiasts a captivating journey of flavors, showcasing the influence of red wine cask maturation. Bottled at a robust 55.5% ABV, this release exemplifies the artistry of cask selection and the meticulous craftsmanship of the Cardhu distillery. With its limited availability, the Cardhu 14 Years Old Diageo Special Releases 2021 is set to captivate the palates of whisky connoisseurs and collectors.
The Influence of Red Wine Casks:
The Cardhu 14 Years Old pays homage to its Speyside heritage while venturing into the realm of red wine cask maturation. The carefully selected refill American oak casks, previously housing red wine, impart a distinct character to the whisky. These casks infuse the spirit with rich flavors, adding layers of complexity and depth. The interaction between the whisky and the remnants of red wine creates a harmonious marriage of Speyside elegance and red wine sophistication.
Cask Maturation and Flavor Profile:
The Cardhu 14 Years Old undergoes a meticulous maturation process in a combination of refill American oak and ex-red wine casks. This careful cask selection allows the whisky to develop a captivating flavor profile. The refill American oak casks contribute delicate vanilla notes, honeyed sweetness, and a subtle hint of spice. The ex-red wine casks introduce a tapestry of red fruit flavors, including berries and cherries, along with hints of oak and a gentle tannic structure. The result is a well-rounded whisky with a harmonious balance of flavors, showcasing the best of both cask types.
Sensory Journey:
The Cardhu 14 Years Old invites a sensory adventure from the moment it is poured. On the nose, aromas of ripe red fruits, vanilla, and honey emerge, teasing the senses. The palate is treated to a symphony of flavors, with luscious berries, rich toffee, and gentle spices dancing on the tongue. The influence of the red wine casks adds a velvety texture and layers of complexity, culminating in a long, satisfying finish. The lingering notes of fruit, oak, and a subtle tannic grip leave a lasting impression.
Limited Availability:
As part of Diageo's Special Releases 2021, the Cardhu 14 Years Old is a highly sought-after whisky with limited availability. Each bottle is meticulously crafted and individually numbered, further enhancing its exclusivity and desirability among whisky collectors. The rarity of this release ensures that it will be treasured by enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike, making it a valuable addition to any whisky collection.
Conclusion:
The Cardhu 14 Years Old Diageo Special Releases 2021 is a remarkable whisky that exemplifies the artistry of cask maturation. The influence of red wine cask finishing adds a captivating dimension to the classic Speyside character of Cardhu. With its limited availability, this release is a treasure for whisky enthusiasts, offering a unique and memorable drinking experience. The Cardhu 14 Years Old is a testament to the expertise and dedication of the Cardhu distillery, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to savor its exquisite flavors.
Gal Granov (85)
Nose: Sweet and fruity with tons of ripe red apples up front, caramelized and fresh, with a nice touch of grapes and some spice. further nosing reveals sweet pastries, old school candy, ripe berries, and also a malty backbone underneath all the fruit, with a wee hint of waxy apple shavings.
Palate: The mouth is nice and sweet, with creamy vanilla, caramel, brown sugar, candied apples we’ve also detected on the nose, baked fruit (pear, apricot) in sweet syrup, alongside spices (pepper, clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg). Rich and round, with sweet wine touches and hints of pink candy floss.
Finish: Short to medium with more candied apples, sweet syrup, and wood spices, alongside candy floss.
Conclusion: A rather enjoyable Cardhu indeed, leaning towards the sweeter side, highly drinkable stuff if you’re a fan of the profile.
