Dalwhinnie Triple Matured (Exclusive "Friends of Classic Malts" Bottling)

Another winner from Dalwhinnie.

Dalwhinnie, Scotland, has a population of 80. That is not a typo! It is home to a small schoolhouse, a pub, an inn, a train station, and... the Dalwhinnie Distillery of course. What else do you need? The distillery, founded in 1897 by John Grant, is famous for being the coldest and the “highest” distillery in Scotland. When you are talking about spirits, “highest” can mean several things right? In this case, we are talking about altitude, sitting at nearly 1100 feet above sea level.

Only 10% of production ends up in their single malt nameplate, and they are a small shop to boot with only one wash and one spirit still each. The rest goes into the famous blended Scotch “Black & White.” So grab what you can get your hands on.

The last bit rings especially true for the expression at hand. Dalwhinnie Triple Matured Edition is an extremely limited edition gem made especially for “Friends of Classic Malts.” And some lucky friends of Uncle Flaviar, of course. It has been matured three times, in a succession of classic distillery casks, ex-bodega casks, and refill European Oak. Alright, alright, alright.

The end result is a complex, full-bodied Dalwhinnie, in which the characteristic light floral notes of the regular bottling are enriched, yet balanced by an inviting savory spiciness. The higher 48% ABV really gives the Spirit some kick and flavor! Dalwhinnie is very rarely seen in any other form than its classic 15 YO single malt, so you can imagine our excitement. One of the most interesting Whiskies out there. Dalwhinnie. More like Dal-Winning, amirite?