Cragganmore whiskies

History

It was founded by John Smith in 1869, a distiller with experience at other houses in the area. He chose the site for the water and, above all, for its proximity to the Speyside railway, which allowed the whisky to be sent by train directly from the distillery, a novelty at the time. At the beginning of the 20th century it passed to several partners and then became part of the Distillers Company, which ended up within Diageo. In 1988 the company included it in its collection of six malts representing the regions of Scotland, which made it known around the world.

House style

Cragganmore uses spirit stills with flat tops and worm tubs, which leave a spirit with more body and complexity. The style combines honey, ripe fruit, malt, flowers and a faint smoky, earthy touch. It is a more serious and deeper Speyside than average, with a medium, dry finish. The versions finished in port casks add red fruit and sweetness.

Where to start

Cragganmore 12 Year Old is the benchmark expression: complex, honeyed and with an earthy background, ideal for those who already know the lighter Speysides and want something with more layers. Drink it neat, without ice, to appreciate all its nuances, or with a few drops of water. It is a very good malt for comparing styles within Speyside. You’ll like it if you enjoy layered whiskies with a dry finish.

• Cragganmore 12 Year OldSingle malt · 40% ABV