First Impressions
A'bunadh — 'the original' in Gaelic — honours founder James Fleming. Exclusively first-fill Oloroso sherry butts, non-chill-filtered, cask strength. Released in numbered batches since 1997, blending barrels from 5 to 25 years old. The ABV varies per batch (59-61%). A rarity: full sherry maturation at cask strength.
Tasting
The nose is praline and spiced orange with deep sherry. On the palate at ~60%, orange, cherries, dried fruit, chocolate, and oak. The finish is intense with bittersweet spice and chocolate.
The Verdict
Aberlour A'bunadh earns a 9 — a cask strength sherry bomb of extraordinary intensity. First-fill Oloroso, no water, no compromise. At £55, one of Scotch's greatest values for cask strength sherry-matured whisky.
