Isle of Arran 21st Anniversary Limited Edition Marries Early Whiskies Together

Twenty-one years in the Scotch whisky industry, while not a particularly long time given the centuries-old tradition of the trade, is still pretty impressive nonetheless. Isle of Arran distillery is celebrating its 21st anniversary this year, and to mark it they’ve just released a special whisky “made up of a selection of ex-Sherry Hogsheads from the first three years of production.”

The new Isle of Arran 21st Anniversary Limited Edition, according to the distillery, brings together into one bottling whiskies from a selection of casks which were laid down in 1995, 1996, and 1997. While there is no specific age statement on this release, the youngest whiskey in that list is at least 19 years of age.

Bottled at a natural cask strength of 52.6% ABV, there are 5.988 bottles being made available for global distribution. The planned price point is £150, or about $190 USD. You can find detailed tasting notes below courtesy of Arran.

“To create this extra special edition of The Arran Malt, I have chosen a selection of our oldest ex-oloroso Sherry Hogsheads from the first three years of production at the Isle of Arran Distillery,” said James MacTaggart, Master Distiller, in a prepared statement. “Over the years, the fresh notes of citrus and malt in our delicate new spirit have integrated beautifully with the ex-oloroso cask. The nose is rich and fruity, and on the palate luxurious notes of dark chocolate, sweet ginger spice and honey lead to a long and satisfying finish.”

“It has been a pleasure to nurture the maturation of this precious spirit and see it become the most fitting dram with which toast our 21st Anniversary.”

• Nose: Tropical notes of mango mix with wax polish and red apple sweetness.
• Palate: Pears, honey and European oak character. A hint of basil, black pepper
  spice and dark chocolate. Citrus fruits appear with water.
• Finish: Long and warming with ginger, lemongrass and a hint of marzipan.