CARDHU - Amber Rock - 40%
Cardhu is an iconic distillery located in the renowned Speyside region, near Archiestown, Moray, in Scotland. Founded in 1824 by the famous whisky smuggler John Cumming and his wife Helen, this distillery holds a rich and fascinating history. Helen Cumming played a key role in managing and selling the whisky, offering bottles directly to passersby through the window of their farm. Thanks to its strategic hilltop location, she could spot the arrival of the police, mask the characteristic smell with flour by pretending to bake bread, then invite the officers for tea while discreetly sending a signal to neighboring distilleries. In 1885, the distillery was completely rebuilt on a new site, allowing for new stills that tripled production capacity. Notably, the old stills were sold to William Grant, founder of the famous Glenfiddich distillery. Today, Cardhu is part of the Diageo group and plays a major role in the composition of the famous Johnnie Walker blends. The name "Cardhu" comes from the Gaelic "Carn Dubh," meaning "Black Rock," a reference to the dark rock of the region.
In December 2003, the brand sparked strong controversy by stopping the production of its Cardhu Single Malt, temporarily replaced by a malt blend called "Pure Malt," marketed with a design and labeling similar to the original. This change caused a significant drop in sales, pushing the distillery to resume production of its authentic Single Malt by 2006, thus reinforcing its position in the pure whisky market.
The Cardhu Amber Rock represents the new exclusive edition of this iconic Single Malt, launched in 2014. This version is offered without an age statement, bringing modernity and aromatic flexibility appreciated by connoisseurs. It is carefully aged in American ex-Bourbon oak casks, giving this whisky rich and balanced notes, perfect for enthusiasts seeking a unique tasting experience.
Non-Peated