Nc'Nean (2017/2024) STR Cask - Best Dram
Nc'Nean is a young distillery from the Scottish Highlands that is known for its sustainable and modern approach. But what happens when an independent bottler like Best Dram takes the distillate and puts it in an STR (Shaved, Toasted, Re-charred) cask?
The panel
Mean 82.0 · spread 2
Value for money 3/5
- Distillery
- Nc'Nean
- Bottler
- Best Dram
- Type
- Single Malt
- Region
- Highlands
- Country
- Scotland
- Age
- 6 years
- Strength
- 54.3% ABV
- Character
- delicate
Tasting
Nose
From the very first nosing, it is clear that this is a fruity and flavoursome spirit. A frozen berry mix opens the aroma - strawberries, raspberries and blueberries dance in the nose and bring a sweet and sour freshness with them. This is joined by the scent of fresh wood, reminiscent of a carpenter's workshop. A hint of sugar rounds off the whole, while spicy citrus notes and a good portion of hazelnut provide depth.
Palate
The intensity continues in the mouth. The oak comes through emphatically - dark, powerful and full of presence. But it is accompanied by a rich fruitiness: dark berries, plums and a fine hint of cinnamon combine harmoniously. The spices provide a pleasant warmth, while the fruit gives the whisky a juicy, almost marmalade-like depth. Despite its power, it remains surprisingly accessible, with a beautiful balance between strength and elegance.
Finish
The finish is long and impressive. The dark wood notes linger on the tongue, accompanied by a hint of spicy oak and a hint of berries. A subtle sweetness remains, allowing the whisky to finish round and pleasant.
Verdicts
Marcel
This Nc'Nean 2017/2024 STR Cask captivates with its lively berry notes and spicy wood character, making it a genuine pleasure to drink. The combination of freshness and powerful cask spice delivers personality without overwhelming — a dramatic dance between modernity and tradition that’s simply fun.
Sascha
With precise cask selection, this Nc'Nean demonstrates a remarkable balance between intense oak spice and juicy fruit richness. Its structure impresses with harmonious spice notes and a long, complex finish, presenting itself as a technically refined, modern Highland whisky.
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 Nc’nean as a whole, which sets the weather for this bottling without pricing it.
Latest mean bid £57 across 75 lots · 2024-08