In October last year (last year already… Oh boy…) AnCnoc released the limited edition bottling of its 35 year old second release. The liquid had been introduced with just 670 bottles available globally. I was lucky enough to receive a sample to taste, so let’s do just that!

Rested for over three decades in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, the casks were chosen by distillery manager Gordon Bruce and master blender Stuart Harvey.

Continuing AnCnoc’s modern tradition proposition and reputation for bringing a contemporary edge to whisky production, the 35 year old is packaged in an ice-white tube with minimal monochrome branding except for an illustration of the Knock Hill, through which the highland spring runs and helps form every AnCnoc whisky.

AnCnoc brand manager Stephanie Bridge says: “The 35 year old second release is a special expression for AnCnoc, having been matured for more than three decades in our traditional dunnage warehouses which still retain their earthen floors and add so much to the quality and character of this special liquid. The second release has lain in ex-bourbon barrels, offering fans something slightly different to the original expression. Our limited edition is a testament to the 35 year old’s popularity with whisky lovers worldwide and we’re confident that this unique release will entice drinkers to add it to their collections.”

The 35 year old is bottled at 41% ABV, neither chill-filtered nor coloured and is priced at £500 RRP for 70cl. It is now available, worldwide.

Nose: Beautifully complex, smooth and balanced with orange blossom, buttered brioche, candied lemon peel, yellow plum and delicious brown sugar. Also an underlying vegetal (honeysucke?) note as well as floor polish, dried fruits & bee wax topped with Christmas spices.

Palate: A chewy nectar, thick, almost syrupy, flowing onto the palate with masses of flamboyant citrusy notes, oak and spices. A certain creaminess leads the way to some tropical fruits, christmas pudding & vanilla cake. Some dried notes appear towards the end

Finish: The aftermath is a long-lasting caress of herbal honey and earthy notes.

Pssst! Find the Recipe Here!

Cover Pic: allthingswhisky.com