Longrow Red Peated Campbeltown Single Malt Scotch Whisky Pinot Noir Cask Matured 11yo 53.1% 700ml

The Longrow Red Peated Campbeltown Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a distinctive, heavily peated single malt produced at the renowned Springbank Distillery in Campbeltown. This special expression is 11 years old, having spent 8 years in bourbon barrels before being finished for an additional 3 years in refill Pinot Noir Barriques from the prestigious Valli vineyards in Central Otago, New Zealand. Bottled in 2019, this limited release consists of 9000 bottles, each presented at a robust cask strength of 53.1% ABV and in a 700ml bottle.

Longrow, a brand under the Springbank umbrella, is known for its heavily peated whiskies, constituting about 10% of the distillery's output. This specific expression is part of the Longrow Red series, celebrated for its annual releases of peated, double-matured single malts, each showcasing a different type of red wine cask. For this release, the barley used was peated to 50ppm, and the whisky is double-distilled to deliver an intense and complex profile.

The Longrow Red 11 Year Old is a testament to the craft of whisky-making with its harmonious balance between the rich, smoky peat and the elegant, fruity notes imparted by the Pinot Noir casks. The packaging includes a presentation box, although please note that there may be slight peeling on the label and a minor mark on the box. However, the whisky inside remains in near-perfect condition, ready to deliver an exceptional tasting experience.

FAQs

• What is the ABV of Longrow Red Peated Campbeltown Single Malt Scotch Whisky?

  The alcohol by volume (ABV) is 53.1%.

• How many bottles of this whisky were released?

  A total of 9000 bottles were released worldwide.

• What casks were used for the maturation of this whisky?

  This whisky was matured for 8 years in bourbon barrels and then finished for 3 years in refill Pinot Noir Barriques.

• Is this whisky peated?

  Yes, this is a heavily peated whisky, with the barley peated to around 50ppm.

Tasting Notes

• Aroma: smoked plums, dried dates, raisins, wine acidity, caramel, sweet and sour tones, cotton candy, red fruit, leather, dark chocolate, cut grass, tea leaves, hint of vanilla.
• Taste: red grapes, cold smoke, tart, cinnamon, pepper, turmeric, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, coffee powder, sour winey, sweet malty, bitter peaty, wooden flavors, chocolate, red wine, acidic, grassy, wormwood, caramel, sharp.
• Finish: medium-long, dry, menthol-like, chocolate, dry wood, grape remnants, betel nuts, long peaty tang, sweetish, woody, elegant, creamy, spicy notes.
• Overall: The Longrow Red Peated Campbeltown Single Malt Scotch Whisky 11-Year-Old is a balanced and complex whisky. The interplay between the peat smoke and the red wine cask influence creates a unique, compelling flavor profile that is both sweet and spicy. The finish is long and satisfying, with a lingering peaty tang that leaves you wanting more.

Reviewer's Opinion

This Longrow Red 11 Year Old is a captivating dram that masterfully combines smoky, peaty elements with the rich, fruity flavors from the Pinot Noir casks. While the balance is nearly perfect, some might find the sweetness a bit overpowering. Nevertheless, it's a commendable release that stands out, showcasing excellent craftsmanship and the unique characteristics of Campbeltown whisky. A must-try for any whisky enthusiast, especially those who appreciate the intricate dance between peat and wine casks.