Old Pulteney 1983 Vintage Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
Volume: 700ml ABV: 46% Age: No Age Statement Country: Scotland
Founded in 1826 by James Henderson at the height of Wick’s celebrated herring boom, the Pulteney Distillery is one of the most northerly on the British mainland. At a time when road links to the town were yet to be established, the distillery was dependent on the sea for its supply of barley and for the shipping out of its malt whisky. Wick became known for the barrels of silver (herring) and gold (whisky) which left the port in vast numbers.
The distillery itself has an absorbing history, with its unique stills defying convention to this day. The wash still, in particular, is a source of fascination to visitors due to the absence of a ‘swan neck’. Legend has it that when the still was delivered it was too tall for the still house and the manager simply decided to cut the top off! The Old Pulteney bottle now incorporates a bulbous neck to reflect the shape of the stills.
With its 21 years old single malt being given a magical gift, named by Jim Murray as the ‘Whisky of the Century’ this is a range of whisky you must discover and try to prise yourself away from.
You can expect absolute brilliance but that’s only my opinion. Salty, fruity and smooth. Vanilla notes and and fruity.
In the past the Vintage releases from this distillery have won so many awards they are extremely highly regarded in the industry and throughout whisky judges the world over.
This 1983 Vintage was released in September 2017 and has spent most of its maturation time in American oak casks before being finished in ex-Oloroso Sherry Spanish oak casks. These casks must have been of the highest quality as this whisky is simply spectacular.
Our Tasting Notes
Nose: Orchard fruits of mandarines, nectarines, cherries, apples and pears. mangoes and dark toffee. Some dark chocolate and lots of sherry notes.
Taste: Raisins and Indian spices, anise, cardamom, cinnamon and nutmeg. Toasted oak and salted caramel chocolates lead to sherry and honey.
Finish: Oak and sherry dominate with some honey sweetness.