Finglassie 8 Years (2017/2025) - James Eadie
In the rolling hills of the Scottish Lowlands, where mist settles over the fields like a silky veil, something extraordinary is created at the InchDairnie Distillery. James Eadie's Finglassie 8 Years 2017/2025 can easily compete with the much more expensive Lagavulin Single Casks.
The panel
Mean 84.5 · spread 3
Value for money 4/5
- Distillery
- InchDairnie
- Bottler
- James Eadie
- Type
- Single Malt
- Region
- Lowlands
- Country
- Scotland
- Age
- 8 years
- Strength
- 57.9% ABV
- Character
- rich
Tasting
Nose
The magic of this extraordinary single malt is revealed from the very first sniff. The warm smoke of a campfire envelops the senses like a blanket on a cold autumn evening. Caramel and the delicate scent of cherries dance together, while raisins tell their sweet story. A hint of neck steak mingles with paprika-like notes and the unexpected charm of baked feta cheese.
Palate
The palate unfolds a rich and full-bodied experience that immediately brings to mind the best whiskies – yes, Lagavulin-esque notes are noticeable. This Lowlander has obviously learned from the great Islay whiskies. The warming effect of the high alcohol content is never intrusive, but blends harmoniously into the voluminous flavour profile. Dried fruit and candied figs give the whisky an almost Mediterranean sweetness, while light maritime notes evoke distant shores.
Finish
The long-lasting finish is a poem in itself. Spicy notes blend with nutty aromas, while plums and cinnamon write the final chapter of this flavourful story.
Verdicts
Marcel
This Finglassie is a genuine mood booster: smoky, sweet, and with a surprisingly lively spiciness that makes any whisky lover's heart race. For just under 80 euros, you get not only a lot of character but also a generous dose of drinking pleasure – a true hidden gem from the Lowlands that can easily hold its own against the great Islay classics.
Sascha
A remarkably well-balanced Lowlander that impresses with precise cask selection and a clear flavor profile. The harmonious integration of sweet dried fruits, smoky notes, and spicy accents makes the Finglassie 8 Years a technically accomplished whisky that, with its structure and long-lasting finish, performs above average for its price range.
What it is worth
No auction record for this distillery, so we cannot tell you what this bottle is worth. We would rather say that than guess.