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Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4%

Name: Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4%
Brand: Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4%

Scotland Single Malt Scotch Score: 9/10

Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4% is a highly acclaimed Single Malt Scotch whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 9/10, it features distinctive notes of Ash, Butterscotch, Caramel. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking single malt scotch expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

Blair Athol 23 Year Old (Diageo Special Releases 2017) is a distinctive and rare whisky from the Blair Athol distillery, known for producing rich, flavorful whiskies. This 23-year-old expression is part of the Diageo Special Releases series, bottled at a cask strength of 58.4% ABV. With its long maturation, this whisky showcases the influence of both its age and the cask selection. The high ABV brings out a powerful and intense profile, balanced by the distillery’s characteristic warmth and depth. Blair Athol's focus on creating smooth, malty, and richly fruity whiskies is evident, making this release an exceptional example of the distillery’s quality.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: The nose is rich, inviting, and full of character. Initially, it presents a warm, malty sweetness that is complemented by a generous helping of dried fruits—raisins, prunes, and dates—bringing a sense of depth and richness. There is a distinct honeyed note, alongside caramel and butterscotch, which adds a creamy sweetness to the bouquet. Spice comes into play with a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, while subtle oak and leather notes appear, providing a mature and sophisticated complexity. A slight sherry influence adds to the mix, giving it a touch of dried fruit and a hint of dark chocolate, creating an inviting and layered aroma.

TASTE: On the palate, Blair Athol 23 Year Old is full-bodied and rich, with the high ABV offering a bold and powerful experience. The malty sweetness is upfront, with honey, toffee, and caramel immediately apparent. The dried fruits from the nose continue, with raisins, figs, and prunes carrying through. The spice profile is warm and comforting, with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a slight pepperiness that adds a touch of heat. As the whisky opens up, the oak influence becomes more pronounced, with a subtle dryness that balances the sweetness. There’s a slight earthy character, adding depth and complexity, and a faint nuttiness that lingers.

FINISH: The finish is long, smooth, and warming, with the dried fruit and malty sweetness continuing to the end. The oak spice remains, adding a gentle dryness that lingers on the palate, while the honeyed and toffee notes offer a comforting sweetness. A final touch of dark chocolate and a hint of tobacco create a complex and satisfying conclusion. The warmth from the high ABV is well-balanced, leaving a lingering impression that is both rich and sophisticated.

Flavor Profile

Ash Butterscotch Caramel Cinnamon Clove Dark Chocolate Date Dried Honey Leather Nutmeg Oak Pear Pepper Prune Tobacco Toffee

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User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4%

What type of whiskey is Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4%?

Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4% is a Single Malt Scotch whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4%?

For the best tasting experience, pour Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4% into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4%?

Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4% pairs excellently with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. Experiment to find your perfect pairing!

What are the main flavor notes in Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4%?

The flavor profile of Blair Athol 23 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2017), 58.4% features Ash, Butterscotch, Caramel, Cinnamon, Clove. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that has been highly praised by critics and enthusiasts alike.

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