Malt Mission 2007 #198

Chieftain's Robusto Cigar Malt
Single Malt Scotch Whisky
55.1% abv
£65

This is the third cigar malt from Chieftain's 2007 releases that I have had this week and I still haven't sparked a cigar. In fact, these whiskies have all been quite outstanding on their own, without filling my mouth (and flat) with smoke. I encourage any feedback from readers who have enjoyed any of these malts (or others) with cigars (or pipes, for that matter).

I have nothing much to say. I suppose some might be wondering why the prices for these malts are so high considering the oldest is 13 years old. Unfortunately, beyond explaining the general quality of the taste of these whiskies, I have no explanation. I can assume, however, that the casks selected to be Cigar Malts 2007 were maturing stocks from well known and perhaps ever rare distilleries. No, not Brora or Port Ellen, but perhaps these whiskies are single cask selections from big names like Macallan or Ardbeg? Ian Macleod Distillers have kept that a secret, but it is the only explanation I can think of for the high price tag for 10-13 year old whiskies. Any other ideas?

This is from a hogshead that yielded 270 bottles. It is intended to go well with a full-bodied cigar. All Chieftain's had on the mission can be viewed HERE.

TASTING NOTES:

Croissants, buttery with an appealing sourness, custard, etc., but the real key here is bonfire, tires, and peat. Orange sweetness, like vitamin C or Fanta. Some dehydrated strawberry and cereal notes, too.

Tar and leaf fires, salt, smoke and oak that eventually gives way to sweet apple and rhubarb pie, some vanilla, and returns to the smoke before finishing on a malt and peat balance.

SUMMARY:

Great nose that balances appealing sweetness against rugged peaty Islay characteristics. A really excellent whisky in its own right, cigars or not. Again, as with the other cigar malts had this week, this one doesnt need water but does exhibit more when a drop is added. A great smoky treat.


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