Aberlour is located in what is considered Speyside region of Scotland. While it was established in 1825, a fire in 1879 almost completely destroyed the location and it was rebuilt at it's current site. Just like with most other Scottish distilleries, Aberlour changed ownership a few times before being acquired by Pernod Ricard in 1974 and has operated under their Chivas Brothers Holdings arm since 2001. The A'Bunadh (pronounced a-boon-arh) expression was first officially released in 2000 and it means “of the origin” in Gaelic. No age statement, matured exclusively in Spanish Oloroso Sherry butts, non-chill filtered, and bottled at cask strength. For those who are not familiar, a butt is a barrel type that is usually used in aging sherry, which is a fortified wine produced in Spain. Butts hold between 475-500 liters or approximately 125-132 gallons and are made from Spanish oak or American white oak. While each batch of A’Bunadh will be slightly different, they have all been excellent. This is Batch 57 and it clocks in at 60.7% ABV. On the nose dark berries and plums, a bit of potpourri almost and very little ethanol, which is surprising considering the ABV. On the palate you get hit with black pepper, lots of sherry influence that comes out, dark raisins. On the finish there’s a bit of fresh green apple, a little herbal bitterness. As soon as you think the alcohol burn dissipates it actually comes back down in your chest with big pleasant warmth. Excellent batch and look forward to picking up new ones!