Cadenhead's Fettercairn 13 Year Old

Fettercairn has a traditional distillery set-up with an open-topped mash tun(producing cloudy wort), wooden washbacks and small stills which point to a firm, quite heavy, nutty style. This style was accentuated due to the condensed being made of stainless steel. However, a quirky cooling ring attached to the top of the swan neck, which sprays cold water down the sides of the still, aids reflux and helps the spirit lean toward a lighter spirit. Even though the majority of Fettercairn's output has been used in Whyte & Mackay's blends, Fettercairn has consistently been bottling as a Single malt as well . In 2009 a more concerted effort to focus on Single Malt bottlings began when a small range of aged expressions were released.

The Original Collection was launched by WM. Cadenhead in the early 1900s but disappeared for a period in the 2000's(replaced by the Authentic Collection). The labels was revived in 2020 and the early releases have quickly become sought-after rarities. They are now generally produced at 46% ABV to maintain clarity when chilled. Aging took place in Ex-Bourbon Barrels and finished in Ex-Port (Ruby) casks.

Nose - Earthy, toffee with a fruit and honey backdrop. Slight hints of fresh barley and red grapes.

Palate - Creamy mouthfeel, custard cream, flat cola - then spice kicks iin on the mid palate, tannins on the sides of the tongue.

Finish - Medium length, liquorice, dried spices, cardamom and a bit of fresh honey.