Description
Fettercairn 16 Year Old – 2nd Release: 2021 review
You don’t want to see that unique flavour lost in a jumble of cask influence. Thankfully, that’s not the case here. Fettercairn 16 Year Old – 2nd Release: 2021 is a really interesting example of how you can sherry a dram and add lots of rich, nutty, and sweet goodness without going into silly sherry bomb territory. The integration is very good, with the Palo Cortado representing a beautiful touch of flair in the selection, adding elegant dry, and bittersweet notes to ensure the dark richness of Oloroso doesn’t run away with things.
The previous release was a much more boisterous affair, this is more refined and demonstrates that the Fettercairn approach continues to be an interesting, credible one. The distillery itself says it “showcases the approach we take to making single malt,” and that it is “confident that this year’s 16 Years Old will be another Fettercairn release that excites and enthralls whisky drinkers.” I’m inclined to agree. I think it’s the kind of ambitious dram that whisky drinkers will really appreciate, though their wallets might have some objections. Anyway, here’s a tasting note:
Nose: Sherry-soaked oak, sugared almonds, vanilla, and mango. There are hints of ginger spice and coffee beans to balance out those sweet notes, as well as some stewed dark fruits in the backdrop.
Palate: A drying palate delivers notes of charred pineapple, salted peanuts, woody spice, and orange zest, with touches of Madeira cake, liquorice and toffee underneath.
Finish: A smattering of drying spice lingers with just a hint of juicy tropical fruits in support.