Craigellachie 10 Years (2012/2023) - Signatory Vintage
The Craigellachie Distillery is known for its strong, malty whiskies with plenty of structure and character. But in the hands of the independent bottler Signatory Vintage, it often becomes even more intense. At 67.4% ABV, this is a whisky that challenges connoisseurs, but also rewards them - with intense sherry flavours, dark fruits and impressive depth.
The panel
Mean 86.0 · spread 0
Value for money 4/5
- Distillery
- Craigellachie
- Bottler
- Signatory Vintage
- Type
- Single Malt
- Region
- Speyside
- Country
- Scotland
- Age
- 10 years
- Strength
- 67.4% ABV
- Character
- rich
Tasting
Nose
From the very first nosing, the sherry flavour literally leaps out at you. Sultanas and grilled bacon dates dominate the flavour, accompanied by a deep, leathery note reminiscent of fresh saddle leather. These are joined by chestnuts and a hint of cardamom, which add a spicy complexity. A malty bread crust also resonates, giving the whisky an additional savoury component. Although the high alcohol strength is noticeable, it does not burn aggressively, but carries the flavours with strength and elegance.
Palate
On the palate, Craigellachie is powerful and sweet, almost like a BBQ glaze on grilled meat. The sultana and date notes from the aroma continue, embedded in a strong leather structure. This is joined by a subtle roasted note reminiscent of slightly burnt sugar. Despite its strength, the whisky remains balanced - the cask gives the distillate a deep, savoury sweetness without overpowering it. With a little time in the glass, a slight dryness develops, rounding off the experience.
Finish
The finish is long, warming and complex. A combination of fruity sweetness and strong oak remains present for a long time, accompanied by a slightly bitter finish. Notes of red wine and a subtle spiciness provide additional depth. In the second wave, the whisky becomes somewhat drier, but always remains elegant and aromatic.
Verdicts
Marcel
A sherry powerhouse that really delights with its rugged edges and full blast of raisins and leather. Despite the hefty 67.4%, this Craigellachie is surprisingly approachable and develops a lovely roundness in the glass – perfect for those who enjoy their whisky intense and untamed.
Sascha
With a clear cask influence and remarkable balance between sweet sherry notes and a dry, austere character, this Craigellachie shows an impressive structure. The 67.4% ABV is well integrated, so despite its power, it never feels unbalanced but instead offers a complex and substantial profile.
What it is worth
We do not yet hold bottle-level auction results — that sits behind Whisky Hunter’s authenticated feed. What follows is the market for Craigellachie as a whole, which sets the weather for this bottling without pricing it.
Latest mean bid £132 across 127 lots · 2024-08