Murray McDavid - Benchmark, Aultmore 15y, 2008-2024, single malt, PX & OL & Amarone wine cask finish, 51.4%, 1127b, scotch whisky

Murray McDavid - Aultmore 15-Year-Old is a masterfully crafted Speyside single malt Scotch whisky, distilled in 2008 and bottled in 2024. This release is part of Murray McDavid’s innovative Benchmark Series, showcasing their expertise in combining traditional whisky craftsmanship with creative cask maturation. After its initial maturation, the whisky was finished in a combination of Pedro Ximénez (PX) sherry casks, Oloroso sherry casks, and Amarone wine casks, resulting in a complex and multi-dimensional flavor profile. Bottled at 51.4% ABV, this cask-strength whisky captures the elegance of Aultmore’s natural Speyside character, elevated by the rich, fruity, and nutty influences of the triple cask finish. With only 1127 bottles produced, this is a rare and highly collectible expression.

Key Features

1. Triple Cask Finish:

   • Finished in an innovative combination of PX sherry, Oloroso sherry, and Amarone wine casks, each contributing distinct layers of sweetness, fruitiness, and nuttiness to the whisky.

2. Speyside Single Malt:

   • Produced at Aultmore Distillery, known for its light, floral, and malty whisky, which provides the ideal base for this complex and refined expression.

3. Cask Strength:

   • Bottled at 51.4% ABV, this whisky delivers bold, concentrated flavors while maintaining smoothness and balance.

4. Limited Edition:

   • With only 1127 bottles produced, this small-batch release is exclusive and appeals to collectors and enthusiasts seeking unique whiskies.

Flavour Profile

1. Nose:

   • A rich bouquet of dark cherries, raisins, and blackberries, intertwined with notes of toasted hazelnuts, milk chocolate, and a hint of red wine tannins. Subtle floral undertones and a touch of orange zest add to the complexity.

2. Palate:

   • Luxurious and full-bodied, with layers of dried figs, plums, and toffee, balanced by spiced oak, nutmeg, and a touch of espresso bitterness. The Amarone cask imparts a velvety texture and deep red fruit notes, while the PX and Oloroso sherry casks contribute sweetness and nuttiness.

3. Finish:

   • A long, warming finish with lingering notes of dark chocolate, molasses, and a gentle touch of cinnamon spice, leaving a velvety and satisfying impression.

Food Pairing Suggestions

1. Rich Desserts:

   • Pair with black forest gâteau or sticky toffee pudding to enhance the whisky’s fruity and caramel notes while adding an indulgent sweetness.

2. Red Meats:

   • Complement with slow-cooked venison or duck breast in a red wine reduction, as the whisky’s fruity and nutty flavors perfectly balance the savory richness of the meat.

3. Cheese:

   • Pair with aged Gruyère or Roquefort, where the whisky’s sweet and nutty profile contrasts beautifully with the creamy and tangy characteristics of the cheese.

Who Is It For?

Murray McDavid - Aultmore 15-Year-Old is ideal for:

• Fans of Complex Cask Finishes: The triple cask finish of PX, Oloroso, and Amarone creates a layered and nuanced whisky, perfect for those who enjoy rich, multi-dimensional flavors.
• Speyside Whisky Lovers: Aultmore’s natural elegance and floral character shine through, making this an excellent choice for fans of Speyside single malts.
• Cask-Strength Enthusiasts: Bottled at 51.4% ABV, this whisky appeals to those who appreciate bold, unfiltered flavors.
• Collectors: With only 1127 bottles produced, this limited-edition release is a prized addition to any whisky collection.

About the Brand

Murray McDavid is a highly respected independent Scotch whisky bottler, founded in 1994 and based at the historic Coleburn Distillery in Speyside. Renowned for their creative approach to whisky maturation, Murray McDavid specializes in small-batch releases that explore the transformative potential of diverse and unusual cask finishes.