CARDHU 11 year old 2008 (Special Release 2020)
CARDHU 11 year old 2008 (Special Release 2020). An obvious opener to the range, and not only because its first alphabetically, It’s an interesting Cardhu, having not only been matured in refill and ex-bourbon American-oak casks, but also in new oak. While some Scottish producers have jumped on new oak for their whiskies, Diageo hasn’t released any whiskies that trumpet its use.
Cardhu make an appearance in the Special Releases as it’s often a chance to explore the spirit beyond the very popular standard releases. The 2020 release was distilled in 2008 and matured for 11 years in a combination of refill casks and both new and ex-bourbon American oak hogsheads. We imagine the new oak element will add a fair bit of spicyness to Cardhu’s elegant, gentle spirit. Bottled at cask strength of 56%.
Cardhu, the Queen of Speyside malts, has a generous spirit that is as well matched to that of hardworking founder, Helen Cumming, as it is to that of the busy bees that pollinate the hillside heather through the long days of summer. Clean, elegant and perfectly poised, this Cardhu was made in small batches and matured in refill casks, as well as new and ex-bourbon American oak, drawing out tones of floral sweetness and spicy intensity in a playful exchange between wood and whisky.
Notes of fresh orchard pear, green apple, grape and pineapple join a trace of lemon peel on the nose, with a gentle mossy base. The texture is creamy-smooth, the taste sweet then juicy, with a buttery richness. Of a good length, the finish is spicy, with lingering warmth.A unique release with very limited availability worldwide.
