Aberfeldy French Red Wine Casks

84
Price Range
$200-$300
Batch
2921
Age
18 years
Country
Scotland
Region
Highland
ABV
43%
Volume
700ml
Appearance
Red candied hue
Nose
Sweet vanilla and butterscotch dominate, with red berry notes of raspberry and strawberry. Candied orange peel, honey drizzle, and a gentle oak backdrop. The wine cask influence is present but somewhat one-dimensional.
Palate
Initial sweetness with vanilla fudge, honey, and red wine fruits - think berry compote and dried cherries. Woody caramel and light spice notes emerge mid-palate with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. The texture is pleasant but lacks complexity, feeling a bit thin for an 18-year-old.
Finish
Medium length with sweet candied fruit, lingering vanilla, and a touch of tannic oak. The finish is pleasant but fades fairly quickly without leaving much to contemplate.
Impression
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Aberfeldy

Flavour Profile

Fruit
8
Malt
2
Marine
0
Mineral
2
Oil
0
Smoke
0
Spice
5
Sweet
8
Wood
5

Review

This Aberfeldy 18 with French red wine cask finishing is pleasant enough, but we found it didn't quite live up to the expectations we'd have for an 18-year-old single malt at this price point. The wine cask influence brings forward lots of sweet berry notes and vanilla, which is nice, but it feels somewhat one-note and lacks the depth and complexity we were hoping for. The palate is enjoyable but a bit thin, and the finish doesn't linger long enough to leave a lasting impression. We wonder was a cask strength version of this might have delivered. It's perfectly fine for casual sipping with cheese and friends - but at $250, we'd expect more character and sophistication.

- Two Whiskey Guys, 2023

Occasion

Cheese board with friends, or as a gift or for a more formal occasion - given the 18 year age statement.

Right for you?

You enjoy fruit-forward, sweet whiskies with wine cask finishes and don't mind paying premium prices for easy-drinking expressions.