Velvet Fig Aged 25 Years A Severe Sherry Cask Matured Scotch Whisky

Independent Scotch whisky bottler Wemyss Malts, in celebrating its 15th anniversary, has been releasing some different whiskies to mark this milestone. The latest of this, the new Velvet Fig Aged 25 Years, is a follow up to a popular expression from 2014 that goes deep down the sherry cask matured whisky rabbit hole.

The Velvet Fig Aged 25 Years, according to those behind it, is the successor to Velvet Fig, which is a sherry cask matured Scotch that has been out of stock at retail for some time now. This newer offering is a rather fascinating release within itself, coming about as a result of the following:

• In 2019 five casks of 1994 vintage sherry cask matured malt whisky from undisclosed Highlands and Speyside single malt distilleries were secured and blended.
• Added were 15 casks of unpeated 1988 vintage, sherry matured Bunnahabhain malt whisky.
• The total of 20 casks were blended together and transferred into 14 refill hogsheads to marry for a total of 16 months.

The final product of all of this is a 42.3% ABV whisky that’s 25 years of age, of natural color and non-chill filtered. Velvet Fig Aged 25 Years prices around £127, or about $165 USD. It has been preview released exclusively to members of Wemyss Malts’ Cask Club, and there was no immediate mention if it would see general distribution.

In the meanwhile, feel free to check out the official tasting notes below.

• Color: Polished mahogany
• Nose: Rich blackcurrant preserve and maple toffee balance against complex wood aromas and aromatic spices that remind one of an antique humidor.
• Palate: Rich fruit notes of dried figs, maraschino cherries, dates, plums and dried apricot alongside premium milk chocolate creates a flavour reminiscent of Black Forest gateau. Subtle wood spices and a leathery meatiness adds depth to the whisky and an unctuous, velvety mouthfeel.
• Finish: A subtle sweet and floral note like gourmet Turkish Delight.