Old Fettercairn 10 Years Old – 1990s Bottling

A screw-cap old bottling from the Highland unicorn, Fettercairn — likely from the 1990s.

Surprisingly, the whisky is beautifully preserved. It opens with a burst of rich honey sweetness, followed by notes of vanilla, soft spice, and twiggy shrubs, floral and grassy tones are vivid and intense, and when layered with a hint of old ink, it almost evokes the sensation of standing beside a waterfall deep in the forest. Later on, aromas of honey candy and baking soda emerge, carried by a clean, elegant bouquet.

On the palate, it’s just as lovely — sweet floral notes swirl around, gradually evolving into a gentle licorices-like sweetness. The classic “old bottle” notes of old paper and ink are distinctly present. Whether this comes from bottle ageing or the character of that era’s distillation, it’s hard to say — but it adds charm.

The finish brings a slightly tannic grape-skin dryness, a touch of saltiness, and that licorices-candy sweetness again — adding balance and a few extra points.

A really impressive Old Fettercairn.