1994 Caperdonich 18 Year Old K&L Sovereign Exclusive Single Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky 750ml

We love finding great casks of whisky from "lost distilleries": single malt institutions that are no longer in operation, making their whisky more collectable and difficult-to-find. While the buildings at Brora and Port Ellen still stand today 30 years after their closure, Caperdonich, closed forever in 2002, was completely gutted and destroyed just recently. Nothing remains from the former Pernod-Ricard facility other than the single malt already sitting in cask. Much like its demolished cousin Banff, which we featured in last year's K&L single malt lineup, Caperdonich has a distinct and understated character that doesn't jump out of the glass immediately. It needs to be coaxed out. Our single barrel of 18 year old malt is a tease at first - hinting at supple fruit on the nose, yet lithely avoiding any serious concentration on the palate. Water is a must with the cask strength in order to temper the heat and bring out the nuance. With the alcohol in check comes the classic character of the distillery - grass, hay, and notes of pepper with more stonefruit. It's a keenly interesting whisky that offers a chance at understanding a fallen soldier. Again, the Banff comparison will be key. Some people thought last year's cask was underwhelming, others thought it was the best they had ever tasted. This year's Caperdonich barrel will likely polarize drinkers much the same, wowing those who appreciate delicacy. Like the distillery itself, it will be missed after it's gone.