Aberlour 16yo American and Sherry Double cask

Distillery Background and History

Aberlour distillery is a Speyside single malt Scotch whisky distillery located in Charlestown of Aberlour, Moray, Scotland. It was founded in 1879 by James Fleming and sits at the confluence of the River Lour and River Spey. Aberlour has built its reputation on rich, sherried whiskies and continues to release aged and cask-finished expressions under the Pernod Ricard / Chivas Brothers group. 

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

The distillery’s blending team seeks to harmonize powerful oak influence with the distillery’s characteristic fruit and malt notes. For the 16-year Double Cask expression, the philosophy involves marrying maturation in ex-bourbon American oak with seasoning in oloroso sherry casks to produce depth, spice, and complexity while retaining elegance. 

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Aberlour uses 100 % malted barley. The water source is the local springs in the Speyside region, flowing from the hills into the distillery via the Lour Burn and River Spey watershed, contributing purity and minerality. Yeast strains are typical internal Speyside strains used for fermentation. 

Distillation Process

Distillation is conducted in traditional copper pot stills, undergoing a double distillation process. The stills are designed to support reflux and retain lighter esters and aromatic compounds, consistent with Aberlour’s style of combining richness and finesse. 

Maturation & Cask Information

This expression is matured for 16 years, using a combination of ex-bourbon American oak casks and oloroso sherry butts. The double cask maturation provides both the oak structure and influence from sherry (dried fruits, nuttiness) while blending them into a unified profile. 

Tasting Notes

Nose: Aromas of floral notes, sweet raisins, spicy nuttiness, dried fruit and gentle oak. 

Palate: Smooth, with plum and red fruit character, floral and spicy flavors, gentle oak influence, soft malt sweetness. 

Finish: Long, warm and fruity, with lingering spice and gentle oak. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs well with dark chocolate desserts, nutty pastries, dried fruits, mature cheeses (like Comté or aged Gouda), roasted meats (pork, lamb) with fruit glazes, and rich desserts featuring figs or raisins.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a few drops of water to enhance aromatic complexity. Use a Glencairn or tulip-shaped whisky glass to focus the nose. Ideal serving temperature: ~16-18 °C.

Storage and Aging Potential

Once bottled, it is stable and not intended for further aging. Store upright in a cool, dark, steady environment (≈15-20 °C). After opening, consume within 1–2 years to preserve freshness.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Single Malt (100 % malted barley)

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40 %