2012 Berry Bros & Rudd

Berry Bros & Rudd released this Craigellachie 2012 as a single cask bottling—a release for those who value honest, unvarnished whisky. Craigellachie is known for its muscular spirit with a robust, slightly meaty character that holds its own through maturation. This example spent eleven years in a refill butt before being bottled in 2023 at cask strength (54.3% ABV), preserving the full weight of the distillery's make.

The nose reveals rich aromas of ripe peach, apple compote, and lemon zest, layered with warm notes of honey and vanilla. On the palate, it's powerful and full-bodied—pineapple, apricot, and a hint of ripe banana—with clear structure and grip. The finish turns leathery and burnt, a characteristic close that pulls no punches.

This is whisky without smoothing or apology, but with authenticity and character. A dram that doesn't hide what it is.