One of a few distilleries built to produce blending whisky, GlenAllachie (pronounced ‘Glen-al-ACK-ee’) was founded by Mackinlay, McPherson and Co to provide malt whisky for Mackinlay blends. The distillery stands in the heart of Speyside, at the foot of Ben Rinnes and in relatively close proximity to Aberlour. Both whisky distilleries draw their water from springs in the mountains.
Formally owned by Chivas Bothers, GlenAllachie was bought by the independent “GlenAllachie Distillers Company”, which is operated by former BenRiach MD Billy Walker. Billy Walker is an industry legend, he has revitalised several mothballed distilleries including BenRiach and GlenDronach.
The GlenAllachie Distillers Co. was lucky enough to inherit a vast amount of aged stocks from the previous owners though Billy Walker has started to put his own stamp on the spirit. Fermentations and capacity have been slowed to produce a more fruity, refined spirit for the future.
GlenAllachie 15yo
A 2019 addition to the GlenAllachie core range, this 15 year old single malt was treated to a finishing period in sherry casks before bottling. The casks in question were a combination puncheons and hogsheads that previously held Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso sherry. Master distiller, Billy Walker, described this expression as having an “exceptional balance of the distillery’s spirit and the influence of the Sherry casks used during maturation.” We’d have to agree.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Peanut brittle, dates and a big scoop of chocolate ice cream.
Palate: Walnut, raisin, Christmas spices and fresh ginger.
Finish: Coffee, Turkish delight and just a hint of flaky sea salt.
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