FETTERCAIRN 2009 10 YEARS OLD 58,9% A.D. RATTRAY - CASK COLLECTION

Embracing a splendid expression of Scotch Whisky, the Fettercairn 2009 10 Years Old 58.9% A.D. Rattray from the Cask Collection is an exemplary showcase of fine whisky craftsmanship. Distilled in the serene region of Scotland and matured with precision, this whisky encapsulates the authentic spirit and character of its origin.

Fettercairn Distillery, the prodigious creator of this select whisky, stands proudly within the Highland region of Scotland, known for its picturesque landscapes and pure water sources which are crucial for the whisky-making process. Established in 1824, Fettercairn is one of Scotland's older distilleries and is celebrated for its commitment to traditional whisky production techniques. This includes the unique use of the Fettercairn Ring, a device that cools the neck of the still, allowing only the finest vapors to condense into the spirit.

The whisky itself, bottled in 2019, is a sterling specimen of a 10-year-old single malt. Distilled in 2009 and expertly aged in a Bourbon hogshead, it showcases how the specific cask type enhances the whisky. Bourbon hogsheads typically influence the spirit by imparting subtle vanilla tones, coconut and sometimes spice, thus enriching the depth and complexity of the whisky. With cask no. 1099 serving as its vessel, the interaction between the wood and the whisky over those ten years has honed its profile to near perfection.

At an impressive cask strength of 58.9%, this whisky is robust and full of vigor. This higher alcohol content not only carries intense flavors but also epitomizes the raw purity of the spirit – a trait often cherished by whisky connoisseurs. Even so, it remains beautifully mellow to the taste, a feature assiduously cultivated during its decade-long maturation.

The meticulous selection and bottling process by A.D. Rattray further elevate the stature of this special release. A.D. Rattray has earned a reputation within the whisky industry for their keen expertise in cask management and bottling of single cask whiskies. Having started in 1868, this independent bottler respects the heritage and identity of the distilleries from which it sources its casks, while still adding its distinctive touch that enhances the individual characteristics of each whisky.

Limited to just 290 bottles, this release from the Cask Collection is a rare treasure, making it a coveted item for collectors and whisky enthusiasts alike. Each bottle encapsulates not just the fine spirit but also the art and history of whisky making. The natural color and non-chill filtered preservation serve to maintain the authenticity and unadulterated essence of the whisky.

In conclusion, the Fettercairn 2009 10 Years Old by A.D. Rattray is not just a bottle of whisky; it is a narrative of heritage, craftsmanship, and the unyielding pursuit of quality. Offering a complex profile with possibly flavors of sweet fruit, nutty tones, and an underlying smokiness, it invites sippers into a sensory journey through the Highland's environmental bounty and historical richness.

For those seeking to explore a substantial, flavor-rich single malt that epitomizes the spirit of Scottish Highlands and reflects the mastery of both distillery and bottler, this edition stands out as a formidable choice, promising each aficionado a delightful, lingering experience shaped by tradition and refined by time.