Caledonian 1964 46 YO Scott's Selection

Caledonian 1964 46 YO Scott's Selection, 41,7 %

Time for a visit to the candy store. Old single grain whiskies, especially those matured in ex-bourbon barrels, can be fantastic candy surprises. Any barrel will do though, as long as it is of very good quality. Single grains need a lot of years to really come into their own. I would say at least 20-25 years.

I have now had the chance to try the Caledonian 1964 46 YO Scott's Selection single grain. It was bottled in 2010 at 41,7 ABV.

Caledonian was established back in 1855, in Edinburgh, and was closed as late as 1988. They used to have the largest Coffey still in Europe, and was said to have produced as much as 4000 liters of alcohol an hour! That's from one Coffey still...

Scott's Selection are an Independent Bottler (Speyside Distillery) from Glasgow. This bottle is available online for about € 150 per bottle. At Systembolaget in Sweden you can purchase the 1965 expression for SEK 1277 (item number 85951).

Nose (24/25): This whisky is very friendly. It starts off by giving my nose a warm and loving embrace. How nice! It's soft and cuddly, comfy and rich. Vanilla, soft caramel, demerara sugar, candle sticks and a hint of citrus. I just love it!

Taste (22/25): Oaky with a peppery coating. Slightly dry. Vanilla, caramel, and some banana perhaps...

Finish (21/25): Very little further development. Oak, pepper and caramel are at the front through the finish. It is medium long.

Balance (22/25): Overall a very fine grain whisky, with a stunning nose. If you haven't given old, single grain whiskies a chance yet, now is the time. They are relatively cheap, compared to single malts of the same age, and they can be true gems. You just have to be a little bit adventurous, and venture a few steps outside of the beaten path. It will be worth it, I promise!

Score (89/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas