Released in limited-run batches, the whisky is matured in Spanish oak casks previously used to age Oloroso sherry, a dark and nutty type of fortified wine. The Oloroso sherry casks, which are some of the rarest and most precious casks used for maturation, impart subtle yet sweet notes of dried fruits and caramel to the whisky, and add an incredible layer of complexity.

After maturation, the non-chill filtered whisky is bottled at cask strength (it is never diluted with water) in bottles reminiscent of old apothecary bottles used by 19th century villagers to collect Scotch directly from barrels.

Aberlour A’bunadh (which is Scottish Gaelic for “origin”) has a slightly smoky aroma with hints of red apples and caramel. It has a rich mouthfeel, and a buttery, creamy palate. The initial flavors of chocolate, cherries and dried fruits blend with hints of honey and spice and lead to a lingering finish that is robust and intense. A’bunadh earned the highest recommendation fromWine Enthusiastand the title “Best in Class”at the Speyside Whisky Festival Awards in 2011.