The Arran Malt 18yo – 46% abv

Info: Arran finally comes of age with its release of their 18yo, the third and final release in a trilogy that started with a 16yo which was released two years ago. More info on the 18yo here.
Colour: Light golden with great legs.
Nose: Malty, oily & full. Spicy but sweet, touches of ozone.
Palate: Thick and buttery, and easier on your palate than you would imagine from the slightly spicy nose. There’s malt, but really well balanced with autumn stewed fruits, red berries, gooseberries, blackcurrants and stewed apple, with a small dollop of vanilla custard. Very pleasant.
Finish: Long with a gentle freshness, slightly herbal, smoothly sweet with those late summer fruits lingering for a good while.
Water: Not overly needed, but it helps tame the spices a touch further. It brings out more of a nutty note, releasing some lighter sherry influences. Still very creamy.
Thoughts: It’s great to see Arran settling down at this older age, it’s accomplished and enjoyable… I can only see it getting better and better in time with older releases hopefully in the pipeline in years to come.
Available: The Whisky Exchange – £75.95

A review of the 17yo can also be found on SWB.

Thanks to Arran for the sample.