An Cnoc 39 yo 1975 / 2014 44.2% vs Linkwood 36 yo 1973 / 2009 The Whisky Exchange 10 Years Online 49.7%
AnCnoc 39 yo 1975 / 2014 44.2%
Just a note that AnCnoc is the whisky distilled at the Knockdhu distillery. This is done to avoid confusion with the nearby Knockando distillery and its whisky.
Odd one in that the whisky itself is a rather soft sherry matured style, but its musty leatheriness is overwhelming. Not that it’s bad just rather extreme on that front. So blackberry and fig compote, cocoa powder, charred wood. Aniseed candy, herbal medicine pouches, a drop of tar, and lots and lots of thick leather, very leathery, the sort of oily musty leather notes associated with a well meaning but excessive overdose of leather oil conditioner on an ancient but treasured leather jacket now closer to worm feed than fashionable garment. Unfortunately on the tongue its rather tannic with rancid walnuts and black tea. Touches of musty vase water. Overall the sherry has taken firm hold and the whisky feels like it has long bowed to great age and a domineering cask.
Linkwood 36 yo 1973 / 2009 The Whisky Exchange 10 Years Online 49.7%
Clear but nuanced bourbon influence this time, with toffee brittle, custard and new leather but layered with saffron, touches of frankincense (yes!), lacquered oak and poached pears. Much development going on. Interestingly, on the palate the Linkwood shows itself to be leafy with mastic and arugula juice. I find echoes of pine, quinine and some sort of herbal infusion made from roots. Very subtle whisky with multicoloured glints at various turns. Also finishes with a fruity acid aftertaste. A real surpriser with a light- body but disarming and charmingly nuanced.
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