The third and final release in the series, The Exciseman brings together whiskies matured in bourbon quarter casks and Madeira casks. (The latter being a nod to casks used by illicit distillers on Arran, who acquired them from Madeira smugglers.) Rather than a celebration of the feared exciseman, this Arran single malt "pays tribute to the exuberant character of those striving to outwit the Government’s representatives"!
This bottle was part of a private collection - if you'd like more detailed photos just get in touch!
The rich honeyed character is immediate on the nose, luxuriously decadent. The fresh coastal character is also evident. Apples, vanilla and a touch of spice are also subtly present with a hint of toasted oak.
It coats the tongue and the notes of apple and vanilla are in abundance. No hint of dryness on the palate, it grows in sweet intensity and provides a rounded mouthfeel. The addition of water opens up the complexity beautifully and reveals a lighter sweetness of candied lemon.
Long, luxurious and yet delightfully fresh. The notes of apple and citrus give a lightness of character whilst the body remains solidly complex and robust. A typical Arran with an added layer of sweetness.
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