Murray McDavid - The Vatting, The Speysiders 13y, 2010-2024, blended malt scotch whisky, px cask finish, 54.1%, 1294b

The Speysiders is a 13-year-old blended malt scotch whisky that perfectly captures the essence of the Speyside region. This whisky is part of the "The Vatting" series, a range that celebrates the art of blending multiple single malts to create a seamless harmony of flavor. With its final maturation in Pedro Ximénez (PX) sherry casks, this expression offers a rich, complex, and full-bodied profile. Bottled at a powerful 54.1% ABV and limited to just 1,294 bottles, it’s both a robust whisky and a collector’s delight.

Overview

• Region: Speyside (Blended Malt)
• Age: 13 Years (Distilled in 2010, Bottled in 2024)
• Maturation: Finished in Pedro Ximénez (PX) Sherry Casks
• ABV: 54.1% (Cask Strength)
• Limited Edition: 1,294 Bottles

This whisky showcases the Speyside region's signature characteristics—fruit-forward, elegant, and complex, elevated by the PX cask finish to deliver bold sherry sweetness and richness.

Key Features

1. Blended Malt Scotch Whisky:
   Crafted from multiple Speyside single malts, this release combines the best attributes of the region—lush fruit flavors, delicate malty sweetness, and a smooth texture.

2. PX Cask Finish:
   The use of Pedro Ximénez sherry casks in the finishing stage infuses the whisky with deep layers of dried fruit sweetness, dark chocolate, and warming spices, creating a luxurious complexity.

3. High ABV (54.1%):
   Bottled at a higher strength, this whisky offers an intense and unadulterated drinking experience. Adding a splash of water can unlock additional layers of flavor.

4. Limited Availability:
   With only 1,294 bottles released, this is a rare and exclusive whisky, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Flavour Profile

• Appearance: Deep amber with mahogany hues, reflecting the influence of PX sherry cask finishing.
• Nose: A rich and inviting aroma of dried figs, raisins, and dates, complemented by dark chocolate, toffee, and a hint of roasted coffee beans. Subtle notes of oak spice and orange zest linger in the background.
• Palate: Full-bodied and luxurious, with an explosion of flavors. Sweet sherry notes dominate, with luscious layers of caramel, treacle, and dark berries. A touch of nutmeg and cinnamon adds warmth, while hints of toasted nuts and oak provide balance.
• Finish: Long, warming, and satisfyingly rich, with lingering notes of dark fruits, spiced chocolate, and a slight nuttiness that fades gracefully.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairing this whisky with the right foods can enhance its flavors and complexity. Here are three perfect pairings:

1. Dark Chocolate Desserts: Rich desserts like chocolate fondant or a flourless chocolate cake amplify the whisky's notes of dark chocolate and dried fruits.
2. Blue Cheese: The bold, salty tang of blue cheese contrasts beautifully with the whisky's sweet sherry profile, creating a harmonious balance.
3. Roast Duck with Plum Sauce: The savory richness of duck, combined with the fruity sweetness of plum sauce, complements the whisky’s sherry-driven dark fruit notes.

Who is it For?

This whisky is ideal for:

• Sherry Cask Lovers: Fans of whiskies with bold sherry finishes will appreciate the rich PX influence in this release.
• Collectors and Connoisseurs: With its limited production of 1,294 bottles, The Speysiders appeals to those seeking rare and exclusive whiskies.
• High-Strength Whisky Enthusiasts: Bottled at 54.1% ABV, this expression is perfect for those who enjoy cask-strength whiskies and the ability to explore its flavor with or without water.
• Speyside Whisky Fans: For those who love Speyside’s signature fruit-forward and elegant malt characteristics, this whisky offers a luxurious twist with its PX finish.

About Murray McDavid

Murray McDavid is one of Scotland’s most innovative independent bottlers, renowned for their dedication to the traditional art of whisky blending and their creative use of cask finishing. Operating from the historic Coleburn Distillery in Speyside, the company has built a reputation for sourcing exceptional casks and crafting unique, limited-edition whiskies. Their "The Vatting" series highlights the brand’s expertise in blending, showcasing the harmony that can be achieved between carefully selected single malts.