A 23-year-old whisky is a testament to patience and the meticulous craft of distillation and ageing. Whisky of this age has spent over two decades in casks, undergoing a transformation that can only be brought about by time. As the seasons change year after year, the whisky slowly matures, developing a depth of character and a complexity of flavour that is hard to replicate in younger spirits.
The journey of a 23-year-old whisky begins with the selection of the raw materials – the purest water and the finest malted barley. The water, often drawn from natural springs close to the distillery and the barley, are the foundations upon which all else is built. Distillation is carried out with care, often in copper pot stills that themselves are centuries-old, contributing to the unique character of the distillate.
Once the spirit has been distilled, it is transferred to oak casks for the long process of maturation. The type of cask used for ageing is crucial and varies depending on the desired outcome. Some whiskies might age in ex-bourbon casks, which impart sweet vanilla and toasty notes, while others may spend time in sherry casks, gaining rich, dried fruit and spice nuances. Over the years, the interaction between the wood and the whisky is a dance of chemistry and artistry, with the cask contributing a range of flavours and colours to the developing spirit.
During its maturation, a whisky will lose a percentage of its volume each year to evaporation, affectionately known as the "angels' share". This natural process concentrates the whisky, intensifying its flavours and aromas. By the time a whisky reaches 23 years of age, it has lost a significant amount of volume, which partly accounts for its rarity and price.
The environment of the warehouse where the whisky rests also plays a vital role in its maturation. The climate and location, whether it be the cool, damp air of a Scottish glen or the variable temperatures of a warehouse in Kentucky, all imprint upon the whisky, giving it a sense of place and a story to tell.
When you uncork a bottle of 23-year-old whisky, you are greeted with a bouquet of aromas that can range from dark chocolate, old leather, and tobacco to ripe fruits, nuts, and spices, depending on its heritage and cask history. The palate typically reflects this complexity, with layers of flavour that might include oak-driven notes of vanilla and caramel, the rich fruitiness of raisins and figs, or the subtle influence of the malted barley itself.