Now here’s a rarity from the long-shuttered Pittyvaich, 29 years old and the only whisky ever released from this Speyside distillery that is double matured, this one being aged in a combination of Pedro Ximenez and oloroso sherry casks.

And wow, what a seductive dram it is. The nose is instantly evocative and enveloping, but surprisingly not overblown with sharp sherry notes. The malty cereal and citrus meld together beautifully, with notes ranging from banana to lime leaves, laced through with a gentle smoky character.

The palate is even lovelier, an initial exploration of graham crackers and sugar cookies that hops to notes of red berries, apple cider, and racy Christmas spices, with a distinct slug of both clove and ginger. A touch hot but short of fiery, the finish finds room for a savory bent, with a reprise of biscuits and a slightly salty, oily note of cheese crisps that comes out of nowhere. Festive and lively, and (given the not-totally-insane pricing) one of the most collectible whiskies in this lineup.

102.8 proof.

A / $430 / malts.com [BUY IT NOW FROM THE BOTTLE CLUB]

Pittyvaich 29 Years Old Limited Edition 2019

$430

9.5

Rating

9.5/10

BUY IT NOW