NV Tomatin Decades II (46%)

Tomatin Decades II is a limited edition hidden gem of a whisky, It’s a masterclass in cask blending, comprising a combination of 21 different casks, each one selected from key years for the distillery throughout the last five decades. The oldest cask was filled on 23 February 1973, adding a 47 year old whisky to the makeup. The level of transparency is impressive, with all the cask details disclosed. For me, this adds to the enjoyment of each dram, allowing you to dissect the whisky and search for the flavours imparted from each cask. It’s quite the combination too; a heady mix of traditional ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry casks married with re-charred Verdejo wine barrels and re-charred French oak casks. The result is an incredibly complex and rich expression that reflects not just the quality of the liquid inside, but also the skill of the blender in achieving an expression of exceptional balance. With only 3,600 bottles produced, this is a whisky that will not be around forever. Moreover I’m delighted to recommend this as one of my favourite drinking whiskies of the year.