To celebrate the end of the 21st Anniversary celebrations at Lochranza, the Isle of Arran Distillery has released a limited edition anniversary bottling.
Master distiller, James MacTaggart, handpicked a selection of finest ex-sherry hogsheads from the first three years of production at the distillery to create a complex spirit which epitomises the iconic flavours that have carried ‘The Arran Waters’ around the world.
Notes of pears and honey combine with a hint of basil and black pepper spice. Water reveals the much-loved citrus character of the Arran Malt whilst a hint of marzipan follows a warming finish of ginger and lemongrass.
James MacTaggart said of this special expression: “I have chosen a selection of our oldest ex-oloroso Sherry Hogsheads. Over the years, the fresh notes of citrus and malt in our delicate new spirit have integrated beautifully.
“The nose is rich and fruity with a luxurious palate leading to a long and satisfying finish. It has been a pleasure to nurture the maturation of this precious spirit and see it become the most fitting dram with which toast our 21st Anniversary.”
Euan Mitchell, managing director of the Isle of Arran Distillers, added: “When the first spirit ran from the stills in June 1995, it set in motion the start of a two-decade journey for the Arran Malt.
“We are tremendously proud of what the distillery has achieved. Our focus on crafting high quality whisky has to lead to many successes from award-wins to record exports to territories across the world.
“For this anniversary expression, we wanted the bottling to be totally different from our core range. The decanter style adds a tactile and luxurious element to the pack and distinguishes it as landmark in the maturation of the Arran Malt.”
Bottled at 52.6%, this exclusive expression has no artificial colouring and is non-chill filtered. It will be released as a limited edition bottling of only 5,988 bottes worldwide.
It will be available from specialist whisky retailers and from the Visitor Centre shop at Lochranza.