1989 Ronnie's Reserve, Cask Ref. 10415, Speyside, Single Malt Scotch Whisky (54%)

The 1980’s heralded the varied application of computer technology and at the same time the functioning of a new still-house with an increased number of stills. Fermentation times were shortened; distillers yeast became the norm and experiments were being run with barley varieties. All this had the benefit of consistency and production efficiency and left little to chance. Generally this distillery produced a different style of whisky then, still elegant but more fruity in style with stellar evidence of malted barley. The filling cask policy of those days was slightly haphazard and for the selection of Single Casks for single malt bottlings great care had to be taken. This one is stellar and epitomises the best characteristics of this distillery in that decade, which I why of course I chose it.

Appearance: Amber

Bouquet: Rich and elegant, balanced and complex. Nougat and dark runny honey wrapped in light wood. It entices.

Palate: Soft fruits and honey, delightfully full and malty it is the epitome of the greatness of this distillery; the style of malt and the control of technology

Finish: Exceptionally long, exceptionally elegant. Exceptional.