It`s a quietly confident whisky, very assertive, sublime & makes a definitive statement. A slow malt, which gently matures & uses time & techniques across generations, as a measure of distinction. It still walks its own path, still follows its Founder`s motto – Let the Deed Show, which allows the whisky to speak for itself – Presenting the Aberlour Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
James Fleming, the Founder of Aberlour,believed that rather than showcasing features of the single malt, let the actions speak rather than words. It was his actions as well ofall other craftsmen, that define the whisky. Thus each step taken by the distillery, reflects in the whisky and its character. At the core of this whisky lies old values – Honest, Integrity & above all craftsmanship.
Aberlour in Gaelic means “the mouth of the chattering burn” which refers to the fresh water spring of the Lour. Aberlour’s truly unique taste is acquired from two fundamentally important ingredients: pure soft water off Ben Rinnes and barley, grown within 15 miles of the distillery. Aberlour distillery produces a spirit of exceptional quality, boasting characteristics that are clean, crisp and fruity with striking depth. The spirit comes in a range of age, including a 10, 12, 15, 16, 18 and a rare 30-year-old 1970 vintage malt, as well as a cask strength release, A’bunadh, with no age statement.
The first time itself, I enjoyed the Aberlour, I found it quite exceptional. It was the 10 YO expression and appreciated in an open Estate, in Norwich, with a “Mountain BBQ”. The deep ambers and the colour of whisky complemented each other. Later in London at a Whisky dinner, I asked for it to be specially served & paired with Irish Lamb Chops, mash&a mellow barley& pepper sauce. The whisky stayed back with me and for many years &I continued to enjoy, its various expressions.
What impresses me the most is thatAberlour aims to be the most inspiring & purpose led single malt brand globally. All areas that are practiced in making of the single malt, are true & distinctive. It truly practices the motto of Let the Deed Show through simple & effective steps !
A fine example is the slow maturation or the Double cask maturation, wherein the whisky is matured in American Bourbon casks as well as in Sherry Casks. The Whisky sleeps for 10 years & then it is lovingly married to create a distinguished malt. Complex with layers & layers of aromas !
In another step towards responsible sourcing, all barley is procured from 15 kms radius and water is drawn from the nearby Ben Rinnes, thus ensuring support & immense contribution to the local community. Besides purity in ingredients !
Perhaps the single most discerning factor is the craftsmanship & legacy of its people, a key factor in creating excellence in whiskies. Experience, Expertise & passion are passed down generations, where from father to son, soft whispers are exchanged to ensure consistency in craftmanship!Techniques &Truly inspiring !
Another example of community & local connect is wherein every year a bottle of 12 yearAberlour is poured into the Spey to mark the beginning of the salmon fishing season in the month of February. The water blessing encourages a good fishing season for the community. James Fleming was not the type of man who looked for reward or recognition for his kindness.
Aberlour reflects on the generosity of its Founder !This self-effacing trait of Fleming’s personality was amply evident at the time when he built the Penny Bridge after a young boy’s life was claimed by the fast-flowing Spey, or when he built a community hall for the people of Aberlour and left money to fund the construction of a hospital.
Aberlour accords age in whisky, a balanced palate, offers a great taste, assurance of quality & a harmony in food pairings, though what distinguishes it the most from any other single malt is its unhurried approach, a quiet confidence & above all a belief in its motto of Let the Deed Show !
Enjoy Aberlour…Slowly ! Enjoy Responsibly !
