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Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48 year old 1971 (Cask No. 2301), 43.7%

Scotland Single Malt Scotch Score: 9.4/10

Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48 year old 1971 (Cask No. 2301), 43.7% is a highly acclaimed Single Malt Scotch whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 9.4/10, it features distinctive notes of Almond, Apple, Caramel. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking single malt scotch expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

The Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48-Year-Old 1971 (Cask No. 2301) is an exceptional and rare whisky, released as part of Diageo’s prestigious "Prima & Ultima" series. This whisky, with its remarkable 48 years of maturation, represents one of the oldest and most sought-after expressions from Cragganmore, one of the finest distilleries in Speyside. Bottled at 43.7% ABV, it showcases the depth and complexity that only time can impart, with a perfect balance of age, oak, and delicate whisky-making craftsmanship. The "Prima & Ultima" series highlights the distillery’s commitment to producing extraordinary whiskies, and this release stands as a testament to the skill and patience involved in creating such a rare and refined dram.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: The nose of the Cragganmore 48-Year-Old is deeply complex and layered, offering a rich tapestry of aromas that have evolved over its nearly five decades of maturation. There is a beautiful balance between the sweeter, fruit-driven elements and the oak-derived notes. Initial impressions are of ripe orchard fruits—particularly apples, pears, and a hint of dried apricots—complemented by a gentle honey sweetness. As it opens up, layers of vanilla, toffee, and a delicate pastry note emerge, bringing a sense of richness. The oak influence is noticeable, with the scent of polished wood, toasted almonds, and a light spiciness, adding depth without overpowering the more delicate notes. There’s also a subtle floral quality, with hints of rose petals and lavender, along with an intriguing light herbal note—mint or thyme. The nose is elegant, intricate, and constantly evolving, revealing new layers with every inhale.

TASTE: On the palate, the Cragganmore 48-Year-Old is beautifully smooth and refined, showcasing the wisdom of its long maturation. The first wave of flavor is soft and sweet, with the fruitiness of ripe pears, peaches, and a touch of red berries. These are harmoniously complemented by rich honey, caramel, and a gentle nuttiness, reminiscent of toasted almonds and hazelnuts. As the whisky develops on the tongue, the oak influence becomes more apparent, adding a subtle spiciness with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a light clove-like warmth. There’s a hint of dark chocolate and rich toffee, deepening the complexity and balancing the sweetness. The mouthfeel is silky, with a polished texture that feels luxurious and well-rounded. Despite its age, the whisky remains fresh and vibrant, with the delicate flavors dancing on the palate.

FINISH: The finish is long, smooth, and exceptionally refined. The sweetness of honey and fruit lingers, accompanied by a lingering oak dryness, which adds a layer of complexity. The spices from the oak gradually fade, leaving a soft, mellow warmth on the palate. The subtle floral and herbal notes continue to linger, adding depth and elegance to the finish. The aftertaste is clean, with a trace of soft vanilla, almond, and a faint touch of smoke. Overall, the finish is impeccably balanced, leaving a lasting impression of sophistication and grace. Overall, the Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48-Year-Old 1971 is a rare and extraordinary whisky that represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and maturation. The whisky’s complexity, elegance, and balance are a testament to both the distillery’s heritage and the exceptional aging process. For whisky connoisseurs and collectors, this expression offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a dram that is as refined as it is rare. It’s a whisky that tells a story of time, craftsmanship, and the subtle interplay of flavors that only long maturation can create.

Flavor Profile

Almond Apple Caramel Cinnamon Clove Dark Chocolate Dried Hazelnut Honey Lavender Mint Nutmeg Oak Pastry Pear Polished Wood Rose Smoke Thyme Toast Toffee Vanilla

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User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48 year old 1971 (Cask No. 2301), 43.7%

What type of whiskey is Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48 year old 1971 (Cask No. 2301), 43.7%?

Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48 year old 1971 (Cask No. 2301), 43.7% is a Single Malt Scotch whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48 year old 1971 (Cask No. 2301), 43.7%?

For the best tasting experience, pour Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48 year old 1971 (Cask No. 2301), 43.7% 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 Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48 year old 1971 (Cask No. 2301), 43.7%?

Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48 year old 1971 (Cask No. 2301), 43.7% pairs excellently with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. Experiment to find your perfect pairing!

What are the main flavor notes in Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48 year old 1971 (Cask No. 2301), 43.7%?

The flavor profile of Cragganmore Prima & Ultima 48 year old 1971 (Cask No. 2301), 43.7% features Almond, Apple, Caramel, Cinnamon, Clove. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that has been highly praised by critics and enthusiasts alike.

Cocktails with Scotch

Affinity

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