Welcome to another Dram Du Jour whisky tasting! Today, I’m diving into the rich and flavourful world of Speyside whiskies with a 15-year-old expression from Tamdhu. A distillery renowned for maturing its whisky in sherry oak casks, Tamdhu brings a distinctive character that whisky lovers, myself included, can’t resist.
A Sherry Cask Masterpiece
This Tamdhu 15-year-old presents a lovely amber colour that hints at the richness to come. Bottled at 46% ABV and non-chill filtered, it’s a whisky that stays true to tradition, ideal for those who appreciate the finer details of whisky-making.
Tasting Notes: Nose
The first thing that struck me was the delightful nose. It immediately brought to mind an apple turnover—a warm, buttery pastry filled with spiced apples. But that’s just the start. As I spent more time with it, other fruits revealed themselves. Pineapple and zesty orange peel came forward, adding a refreshing citrus lift. There’s also a subtle oak presence, but the fruitiness dominates here, with a hint of orange zest tickling the senses.
Tasting Notes: Palate
The palate is where this dram truly shines. More orange comes through, accompanied by dried fruits that add a layer of complexity. There’s an earthy quality and a hint of old leather—a sensory trip back to childhood memories of sitting in an Austin Healey sports car. That leather touch and a slight cinnamon nip adds an intriguing twist.
Adding a splash of water? It opens up beautifully. Suddenly, you’re greeted with more lemon and vanilla notes reminiscent of a vanilla cheesecake. While I generally enjoy most whiskies with water, this one holds its neatness, delivering a robust yet balanced experience.
The Finish
The finish is long, warm, and sweet, with vanilla ice cream and hints of clove coming through. It leaves a lasting impression—a dram that invites you to take your time and savour every sip. The warmth and sweetness linger, creating a perfect close to this whisky experience.
A Distillery Steeped in Tradition
Tamdhu isn’t just a great whisky; it’s also a fantastic place to visit. Located on the banks of the River Spey, the distillery offers a memorable tour where you can explore the rich history of its whisky-making process. Although they don’t take water directly from the Spey, they use their natural spring, and the attention to detail is evident in every drop of whisky they produce.
One highlight of the tour is the walk through a disused railway station, a reminder of the days when the Oloroso sherry casks were delivered by train. Tamdhu has been importing these casks from Spain since the late 19th century, ensuring that their whisky continues to be shaped by the same traditional methods that make it so exceptional today.
The Magic of Tamdhu
Overall, the Tamdhu 15-year-old is a whisky that’s more than deserving of its accolades. In fact, it was my Malt of the Year for 2023, a title not easily won but truly deserved. If you have the chance, I highly recommend visiting the distillery and experiencing the magic of Tamdhu for yourself.
Have you tried the Tamdhu 15-year-old? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your tasting notes below, and don’t forget to subscribe for future tastings, including the 10-year-old and 18-year-old expressions.
Until next time, slàinte mhath!