Kinclaith 1966 16 Year Old Connoisseurs Choice
This 1966 vintage whisky is derived from the Kinclaith Distillery, which was only operational for 17 years before shutting down. In 1975, the Kinclaith stills were reinstalled at the neighboring Strathclyde Distillery, which continues to operate in the present.
In the immediate aftermath of its closure, Kinclaith Distillery was taken down, and its whisky is extremely difficult to find. Independent bottlers, such as Gordon and Macphail, are the best source for Kinclaith Distillery bottlings.
Gordon & Macphail‘s Connoisseurs Choice series is one of the most famous editions, showcasing single malts from distilleries that rarely released official bottlings. many of the spirits in this series are very diverse, offering new tasting experiences to whisky enthusiasts.
Taste Kinclaith 1966 16-Year-Old Connoisseurs Choice
This particular whisky, the Kinclaith 16-year-old, was bottled by Gordon & Macphail in 1982 at 40% ABV. Fitting for any whisky library, the rare expression marvels enthusiasts with its characteristics.
A surprising fresh mint note comes out of this drink, plus notes of plums, malted biscuits, and apple cores. This was likely aged in sherry casks and first-fill bourbon barrels because it’s filled with raisins, rum, rum spices, and an unexpected raisin note.
Yet, there are still more aromas that caress the nose. Suddenly, a brandy/cognac flavor similar to the elderflower note is followed by a lighter caramel and vanilla note.
However, the effect on the palette is a winner. Proving more spicy than expected, with sweet vanilla ice cream and vanilla custard notes. An abundance of raisins and rum lingers for a while. Then subtle, softer aromas reveal the back including Old Calvados, fermented apples, and strong alcoholic cider notes.
The Kinclaith rolls out a surprising finish. Firstly, it gets a little hotter and spicy. Strong apple notes are there with a hint of black pepper that rides the whole way through. A hint of sweet bread and butter pudding comes through with raisins, custard, cinnamon, and brandy.
