Gordon Graham's Black Bottle Double Cask

Black Bottle was created in 1879 by Gordon Graham and Co. based in Aberdeen. The three Graham brothers (Charles Innes, Gordon and David) original business was tea but they switched their attention to whisky blending. Soon the popularity of the whisky spread through the East Coast fisherman who favoured it on long sea journeys.

Black Bottle's name came from its original bottle design based on black German glass and echoing the traditional pot whisky still. In 1914, following the outbreak of war, production was switched to green glass as it is to be found today.

Black Bottle combines the finest of grain whiskies with malts from the seven distilleries of Islay, which form the heart of the blend.

One of two initial releases in the Black Bottle Alchemy Series, Double Cask brings together malt whiskies finished in Spanish sherry casks with grain whisky aged in red wine casks. Boasting heavy red fruit influence, though well balanced by subtle whiffs of toasted sugar and savoury nuts, this should make for a great late evening dram. A great start to the Black Bottle Alchemy Series, alongside the Island Smoke expression.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Blackcurrant, damson, Seville orange, walnut and coffee cake.

Palate: Cherry and raspberry, with a layer of vanilla cream. Softly spicy and warming.

Finish: Toasted brown sugar, runny toffee, a final hint of red berry brightness.