Tomatin Decades II 46% 700ml

The Tomatin Decades II is a limited-edition single malt whisky from the esteemed Tomatin distillery, nestled in the picturesque Highlands of Scotland. Distilling since 1897, with roots in local informal whisky brewing dating back to the 1700s, Tomatin boasts a unique heritage. Situated at an altitude of 315m in the small town of Tomatin, the distillery's name translates to "Hill of the Juniper Bush," referring to the smoke-free wood that was historically favored by illicit distillers in the area.

Decades II is an extraordinary expression, crafted from a marriage of 21 casks selected from key years across the past five decades. Each decade adds a distinct layer of flavor, making this whisky a true tribute to the craftsmanship and dedication of Tomatin's team, both past and present. Maturing in a mix of ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and re-charred French oak casks, the whisky represents a half-century of distilling excellence.

The tasting journey begins with an initial burst of citrus fruits, leading to flavors of freshly baked pastry, dried fruit, and exotic spices. On the palate, you'll discover notes of Christmas cake, malt syrup, red berries, tropical fruits, and wax. The experience concludes with a long, waxy, and tropical finish.

The whisky from the 1970s, matured in refill Hogsheads, stands out for its depth and complexity, characterized by an array of tropical fruit flavors. The 1980s whisky, aged in first-fill Oloroso Sherry Butts, brings sweet and fresh tones of aged leather, polished oak, and dark roast coffee. The 1990s whisky, nurtured in first-fill bourbon barrels, offers golden syrup, freshly baked pastries, and subtle spices. From the 2000s, the whisky matured in Verdejo Wine casks adds sweetness and spicier notes, while the whisky from the 2010s, matured in second-fill casks, showcases the distillery's character beautifully.

With a limited production of just 3600 bottles, Tomatin Decades II, bottled in 2019 at an ABV of 46%, is a rare and exquisite collectors' item that embodies the rich history and innovative spirit of the Tomatin distillery.

FAQs

• What makes Tomatin Decades II unique?

  Tomatin Decades II is unique due to its blend of 21 casks selected from key years across the last five decades, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and a tribute to the distillery's history.

• Where is the Tomatin distillery located?

  The Tomatin distillery is located in the Highlands of Scotland, in a small town called Tomatin, situated at an altitude of 315 meters.

• What types of casks are used to mature Tomatin Decades II?

  Tomatin Decades II is matured in a mix of ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and re-charred French oak casks, with contributions from refill Hogsheads, first-fill Oloroso Sherry Butts, first-fill bourbon barrels, and Verdejo Wine casks.

Tasting notes

• Aroma: Oak, tropical fruits, coconut, Christmas cake, cinnamon
• Taste: Buttery, oak-studded, ripe mango, raspberry, Christmas spice
• Finish: Waxy, cinnamon, fruity, lingering sweetness

Overall: Tomatin Decades II offers a harmonious blend of citrus fruits, freshly baked pastry, and exotic spices. The palate is rich with Christmas cake, red berries, and tropical fruits, leading to a long, waxy, and tropical finish that leaves a lingering sweetness.

Reviewer's opinion

Tomatin Decades II is a testament to the distillery's dedication to quality and tradition. The blend of whiskies from different decades creates a complex and layered experience that any whisky enthusiast would appreciate. Its limited availability makes it a treasured addition to any collection.