After Dark, Another Dram, A D Rattray
Tristan
There are a number of indie bottlers out there. It is becoming quite a sport to buy up casks, draw up artwork and then package the whisk(e)y as the best thing since sliced bread. However, there are five indie bottlers that are at the top of the tree and AD Rattray is one of them. Maybe it’s because they have been in the business for so long. Their founder, Andrew Dewar Rattray started selecting casks over 150 years ago and whilst we suspect he is not picking the casks now, he has passed on a wonderful passion and a keen eye for those who are now in charge.
For this tasting Tristan tried their 2007 Caol Ila which was from cask #313206.
Nose
Well, this is a true Caol Ila with a salty smoke and rich flaky fish being the first inviting note. Let it sit and it will open a little with an almost toasted seaweed note trying to edge in.
Palette
Say hello to a wafting tobacco taste that hugs your throat and warms you up. This is in company with honey pork ribs.
Finish
It lingers, it’s lovely, it’s warming and it’s ruddy lovely.
Overall
For Tristan this was one of his favourite drams of 2021 (this was tasted in September 2021). It had everything that he expected from the distillery but with an age that you rarely see as a standard bottle. That meant that this showcased it’s peat and smoke with the salty coastal tones that aren’t often as prominent.
Key Facts
Distillery: Caol Ila
Expression: AD Rattray Cask Collection
Area: Islay
Cask: Bourbon Hogshead / Cask #313206
Age: 14 year old
ABV: 53.8%
RRP: £86
Amdram’s Score: 9/10