Description
Knockando 15YO 700ml is a 15-year-old Speyside single malt Scotch whisky from Knockando Distillery in Moray, labelled Richly Matured and bottled at 43%. It is matured in both ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks, a combination that builds baked fruit and warm spice on a malty base.
Knockando was established in 1898 in the Moray village that shares its name. W and A Gilbey, the London gin producer, bought it in 1904, and after a series of company mergers it became part of Diageo in 1997.
The name is usually explained through the Gaelic Cnoc-an-dhu, which the label and the owner translate as little black hill. Alongside the age statement, the label carries a panel headed Distilled In, showing the year the whisky was made, along with a signed tasting note.
The carton states a minimum of 15 years in oak and sums up the character in three words: fruity, complex and spicy. The owner adds that it is the newest addition to the Knockando family, and describes the body as concentrated and the finish as lingering.
Buy Knockando 15YO Online in NZ
Serve it neat in a tulip glass, or add a few drops of water if you want the fruit and almond notes to open further. A cube of ice is fine in warmer weather, though the sherry character shows most clearly without it. It goes well with dark chocolate, a nut tart or roast duck with cherries.
- Knockando Distillery, Moray, established 1898
- Matured in ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks
- Aged 15 years, bottled at 43% ABV
The nose is lively, with baked fruit, warm spice, dark chocolate and sherry. The palate feels concentrated, with rich fruit, oak and almond, and the finish lingers with wood and sweet spice.
A thoughtful gift for someone who enjoys older Speyside malts, or a bottle for anyone who likes sherry influence without heaviness.
