Whisky Review: The ImpEx Collection 28-Year-Old Cameronbridge Cask #115125 1992

Editor’s Note: This whisky was provided to us as a review sample by ImpEx. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link towards the bottom of this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.

Sam Filmus founded ImpEx beverages in 2008 with a vision to import premium and rare spirits from around the globe. We have previously reviewed several of ImpEx Beverages’ rare selections here at The Whiskey Wash, and now we get to review some special bottles in their very own line-up. The ImpEx Collection Edition One launched in July and features six Scotches, one Israeli whisky, and three rums. Bottles in the collection range in age from three to 40 years, which makes this line-up rare.

One of the Scotches in The ImpEx Collection is a 28-year-old from Cameronbridge distilled in 1992. Cameronbridge is the largest grain distillery in Europe. Aside from whisky, the distillery also makes Tanqueray and Smirnoff.

When selecting barrels for this inaugural collection, ImpEx Vice President Chris Uhde asks three questions:

1. Is it delicious?
2. Would I be proud to share and enjoy this whisky with friends?
3. Does the cask fit in a complementary way with the other casks being offered in the release?

If Uhde cannot answer “yes” to each of these questions, then the barrel is not selected for the collection. Of the three samples available to me, they do form a cohesive line-up so far. What a lucky job getting to select a rare barrel.

Given the ages of the whiskies, you will have to scour every crevice to find a bottle. The ImpEx Collection is the culmination of the company’s growing portfolio of spirits. Having access to rare casks means having a collection on par with Diageo’s Special Releases. Let’s see how the 28 Year Cameronbridge Cask in the ImpEx Collection fares.

The ImpEx Collection, Edition 1 (image via ImPex Beverages)

Tasting Notes: The ImpEx Collection 28-Year-Old Cameronbridge Cask #115125 1992

Vital Stats: 51.8% ABV. Lowland single grain aged 28 years in sherry butts. 425 bottles available. 750ml $200.

Appearance: Coppery amber

Nose:  Faint smoke and green apple greet the nostrils. Orange peel and cinnamon give off an autumnal essence. Deep within the whisky is a sweet butterscotch note.

Palate: The orange and butterscotch from the nose first touch the tongue. The orange note along with green apple tastes like whole fruit rather than an oil or peel. Nutmeg and cardamom fill out the middle layer. The finish gives off brûléed sugar. Overall, the whisky reminds me of fresh apple pie.