Ancnoc 22yo

In 1892 John Morrison purchased the knock estate, the surrounding area was full of peat and barley, and within a stones throw of the Great North Railway.  When natural springs of pure, clear water  water were found John Morrison sized his oppertunity, once samples had been analysed John began negotiating with the Distillers Company of Edinburugh to build his distillery.  Within 2 years in 1894 John Morrison opened the doors of the Knockdhu distillery..

The Ancnoc 22yo has been predominately matured in American oak, ex bourbon casks as well as Spanish oak, ex sherry butts. This was bottled at 46%abv..

Nose..  A refreshing sweetness rises from the glass with hints of toffee, honey and caramel,  fresh apples with distinct citrus notes, some nice dried fruit aromas cling onto a dark chocolate and ground coffee note before letting a subtle floral scent escape.

 

Palate.. Straight away you get a smack of  spice, cinnamon and ginger coat the tounge, more citrus notes and candied orange and a little lemon have their say.  Liquorice  and bitter chocolate mingle with honey and vanilla before a subtle hint of coconut takes a turn to be noticed, the most delicate smoke infused oak note pops in right at the end.

 

Finish.. Refreshingly long and spicy..

 

Thoughts.. Sometimes when you pick up a whisky at this age you just expect it to be good, sometimes your right, sometimes a little dissapointed, and sometimes you just think wow.. This malt falls into the ” now that is pretty dam good. From the very first sniff you get quality, the liquid is extremely fresh and very inviting, the palate just continues your journey, and long after finishing it you are still thinking of it.. This is a very good and enjoyable malt, it deserves a place on your shelf..