Caperdonich 22 years 2000 - 2022 #29490

Tasting notes by Ruben Luyten (WhiskyNotes.be) Score: 88/100

Nose: rather fruity, but not full on, I’d say. Juicy quinces and peaches, with acacia honey and vanilla waffles. On the other hand, also sunflower oil, coconut cream and buttercups. Plain wood shavings in the background and subtle floral / minty touches.

Mouth: a really nice oily texture. Mashed bananas with orange syrup, sweet pear and hints of honey. Sweet and fruity, but also quite modern and wood-oriented, on vanilla, white pepper, candied ginger and more coconut. A nice profile, rather thick and waxy.

Finish: long and sweet. Some syrupy fruits combined with a soft bitterness and minty notes.

This Caperdonich is in line with previous bottlings, showing a thick, syrupy texture, a subtle waxiness and nice fruits, but also a firm bourbonny side. A nice warming dram.

Caperdonich Distillery

Caperdonich Distillery was located in the heart of the Speyside region, in the small town of Rothes. Founded in 1898 by James Grant under the name Glen Grant No. 2, the distillery closed in 1902 and only reopened in 1965 under the name Caperdonich, meaning 'secret spring' in Gaelic. The distillery has a rich, if intermittent, history in whisky production.

A unique feature of Caperdonich was the use of water from nearby springs, which contributed to the purity and character of their whiskies. Caperdonich whiskies were known for their smooth and complex flavour profiles, with notes of honey, fruit, vanilla and a slight spiciness. The distillery used traditional copper pot stills and the whisky matured mainly in ex-bourbon casks, which ensured a balanced and refined flavour.

Although the distillery closed permanently in 2002 and was later demolished, the remaining bottles remain highly sought after by aficionados, collectors and investors due to their rarity and exceptional quality. Caperdonich remains a respected part of Scotch whisky history, remembered for the unique and high-quality single malts it produced.