fomo
Allt a Bhainne 9 Year (Chapter 7)
Single Malt — Speyside, Scotland
Reviewed
May 29, 2020 (edited August 12, 2020)
Impressions, shoulder level:
Pours from the bottle with intensely fruity aromas that settle to golden apples, white grapes, allspice, and fresh white bread.
The palate is a starburst of fruit and wood spice, with mangos, peaches, white grape juice, freshly cut cedar, and pine. At 60+% ABV, the presentation is remarkably balanced, and the heat and intensity build at a confident but deliberate pace (a small amount of water - a few drops max- and a few minutes of rest really brings out the best in this expression). The finish is the star of this expression; it’s outstandingly long and lingers on a very pleasant Manuka honey-like note, with a faint black tea note in the background.
This is my first Chapter 7 expression, but they’re quickly becoming my favorite independent bottler.
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@fomo That would sure explain it - lots of independent bottlers are difficult to find stateside, unfortunately. It sounds like you aren't all that new to whisky given how familiar you are with independent bottlers haha! I enjoy Clynelish too and have had some good successes with the higher end Signatory bottlings. I usually look for independent bottlings in bars where it isn't such a big commitment since reviews are sparse and liquor around here is ~35% more than elsewhere. Would definitely be interested to swap samples sometime :)
@ContemplativeFox, The two Chapter 7 expressions that I’ve tried have been excellent, but the company does not appear to be widely distributed here in the States. I’m somewhat new to whisky, but independent bottles of Clynelish have consistently been excellent. Signatory and Wemyss bottlings of Clynelish are among my fondest expressions, period. Douglas Lang bottlings are sometimes excellent, but can also be disappointing. For these, I find it best to rely on a trustworthy bottle shop with a reputation of quality picks. I just moved, and much of my collection is in storage. I would be happy to mail a sample at some point in the future, though. Cheers!
Very interesting - I hadn't even heard of Chapter 7! Are there any other bottlers you recommend seeking out or avoiding?