I recently received a sample of the newest addition to the Dewar’s portfolio: a 25-year-old baby, so let’s give it a try !
“A meticulous search of the cask inventory revealed an intriguing array of fine aged malt and grain Scotch whiskies aged 25 years and older. Each cask was individually sampled and assessed by Master Blender, Stephanie MacLeod before being chosen. Once MacLeod was satisfied that she had a perfectly balanced flavour profile in the DEWAR’S House Style, the specially selected casks were blended together and then filled into oak casks for an additional period of maturation, a process pioneered by DEWAR’s, known as double-ageing, to add more depth and enriched smoothness.
During this extra period of maturation, the disparate characters of the malts and grains are allowed to interact with one another and mellow further. In an extra step unique to the new 25-year-old expression, the whisky was then filled into a set of freshly disgorged ROYAL BRACKLA® casks for an extra period of finishing.
According to MacLeod, “DEWAR’S 25 is endlessly smooth, rich and elegant. Awakened on the palate: the sophisticated whisky is glorious in its harmony and balance, gently revealing layers of rich fruit, floral notes and delicate honey, with a hint of smoke to finish.”
Fraser Campbell, Global Ambassador for DEWAR’S comments “Disclosing the ages of our blends allows discerning whisky drinkers to choose an expression with a maturity and flavour profile that matches their own character preferences. DEWAR’S remains committed to age statements as a sign of craftsmanship and quality. In a world where aged stock is increasingly rare, we are proud to display an age on the front of our bottles”.
DEWAR’S 25 Years Old is bottled at 40% ABV and priced at $225. The new expression is available since October 2017 in Global Travel Retail followed by a gradual roll-out into key domestic markets.
Nose: Rich, rather complex and fresh with treacle, leather, peach jam, beewax, floor varnish, caramel syrup, candied lemon and carrot cake. Definitely a seasonal nose that would go pretty well on a chilly autumnal evening, all wrapped-up in my fluffy tartan plaid #LifeGoalsBeLike
Palate: Very easy-drinking, still showing this complexity and richness that initially showed up in the nose. Silky and gently mouth-coating with sweet wood spices, burnt caramel, honey waffles (you know those Dutch specialities? If you don’t know what I’m refering to, I urge you to put your hands on a packet right now!) and an underlying antiquaire-y vibe (old wooden shelves, books… See what I’m talking about?). Some fruity notes also appear with plums in brandy and cherry liqueur.
Finish: Lingering with sweet toffee, spices and drier oaky notes
Psst! Find the recipe here!
