Knockando 15 Year Old Richly Matured 70cl
ABV: 43% | Origin: Speyside, Scotland

Tasting Profile

• Nose: Expressive with golden malt, baked fruits (stewed apples, raisins), dark chocolate, cinnamon, and a hint of sherry
• Palate: Silky and intense with rich fruitiness—dried apricots, almonds, and oak—balanced by sweet spices and sherry warmth
• Finish: Long and smooth with lingering wood, soft spices, and a touch of malt sweetness

Production Details

• Distillation method: Double distilled in traditional copper pot stills (conical for first distillation, boil ball for second)
• Cask type(s):
  • Matured in ex-bourbon barrels (American oak)
  • Finished in sherry casks (Spanish oak)
• Special processes:
  • Aged for a minimum of 15 years to develop depth and richness
  • Non-chill filtered to retain full flavor profile
  • No artificial coloring, preserving natural amber hue
  • Combines bourbon’s subtle almond notes with sherry’s intense fruitiness

Perfect For

• Fans of Speyside’s refined, fruity single malts
• Those who enjoy sherry-influenced whiskies with a smooth texture
• Gifting to whisky lovers seeking complexity without peat
• Pairing with desserts or as a contemplative after-dinner dram
• Collectors appreciating Knockando’s vintage-inspired tradition

Expert Notes

• Highlights Knockando’s mastery of cask maturation, blending bourbon and sherry influences seamlessly
• Part of the distillery’s “Richly Matured” range, emphasizing generous flavor from extended aging
• Less peaty than Islay malts, offering a classic Speyside elegance
• Bottled at 43% ABV for a balanced, approachable strength
• A key contributor to the J&B blend, yet shines as a standalone single malt

Customer Reviews

• “Rich and fruity with a lovely sherry kick—perfect for a quiet night.” – Sophie L. ★★★★★
• “Smooth as silk; the chocolate and spice notes really stand out.” – Paul G. ★★★★☆
• “Great value for a 15-year-old Speyside malt.” – Rachel K. ★★★★☆

Interesting Facts

• Knockando, founded in 1898, was the first Scottish distillery with electricity
• Named after the Gaelic “Cnoc an Dhu” (small black hill), reflecting its Speyside location
• Traditionally bottled by season with vintage years, though modern releases like this focus on age
• Sits on the banks of the River Spey, influencing its refined malt character
• Owned by Diageo since 1997, it’s a cornerstone of Speyside’s whisky heritage

Serving Suggestions

• Sip neat to appreciate its layered complexity
• Add a drop of water to enhance the fruit and spice notes
• Pair with apple tart, dark chocolate, or a mango-topped dessert
• Enjoy with mild cheeses like brie for a subtle contrast
• Serve at room temperature in a tulip glass for optimal aroma

Distillery

• Knockando Distillery, established in 1898 by John Thompson, lies in Speyside along the River Spey
• Known for its light, elegant single malts, it’s a key component in the J&B blend
• Revived in the early 20th century after a closure, it now operates year-round under Diageo
• Maintains a tradition of seasonal bottling heritage, with each release showcasing a distinct character
• Its location and use of local spring water from the Cardnach source shape its refined profile