Scotch

Whisky Review: Rare by Nature 2020 Special Release Cragganmore 20 Year Scotch Whisky

We review the Rare by Nature 2020 Special Release Cragganmore 20 Year Scotch Whisky, matured in refill and freshly-charred casks.

OVERALL RATING

7
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Tasting Notes

About:

55.8% ABV. Speyside single malt distilled in 1999. Matured in refill and freshly-charred casks. 750ml $173.
Appearance:
Fino sherry
Nose:
At first, I shockingly got bubble gum. Not pink bubble gum, instead Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit. I can distinguish so many fruits. The big ones that standout are lemon peel, banana, and green apple. Mint sprigs sweep in. On the backend is the scent of croissants.
Palate:
At its natural cask strength, the Cragganmore is a touch too hot. Alas, all the wonderful fruit on the nose is buried by oak. Lemon peel does pop out, but overall the dram is tannic and bitter like over-steeped tea. The finish is sprinkled with black pepper.
Finish:
Comments:
While the Rare by Nature Special Release Cragganmore 20 Year gave an enchanting nose, the palate was disheartening. I think the extra time in maturation did a disservice to the whisky. The oak drowns out any flavor except the lemon zest. Part of me wants to wear the Cragganmore 20 Year as a perfume. If you can try it, do so, maybe you’ll like it more than I did.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Courtney Kristjana

Courtney Kristjana is a leading whiskey taster in the United States. Inspired by an article on Heather Greene, she left her career in Gerontology to pursue her passion for whiskey. Currently studying to become a Master of Scotch, Courtney dreams of one day being nominated for the Keepers of the Quaich. Her reviews may be as strong as the peat in her scotch, but she guarantees honesty, integrity, and an open mind.

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