Stoic Drinker’s Notes
2017-02-19 | Good/Very Good

New Release: Imperial 1995-2016 21 Year Old Maltman #20155 48.9%

Imperial IMPERIAL 1995-2016 21yo The Maltman #20155 48.9% - One of 298 bottles, Bourbon cask
Bottle #インペリアル(IMPERIAL)
This Imperial was unexpectedly rich. Imperial IMPERIAL 1995-2016 21yo The Maltman #20155 48.9% One of 298 bottles, Bourbon cask The aroma features orange marmalade, apricot tea, vanilla cream, mint, oak, and a matured barley note. On the palate, it begins with a smooth mouthfeel, expanding into apricot tea, honey-like sweetness, tightening oak, and a long finish. 【Good/Very Good】 New release from Maltman of Meadowside Blending: Imperial 1995, 21-year-old maturation. Although Imperials were once bottled in succession, they have become rare and less commonly seen. Among the previously released Imperials from 1995, including many I've tasted at whiskey fairs, this one stood out for its maturity and concentration. Particularly strong were the nuances of apricot tea and jams, with a honey-like, creamy, rich oakiness. While long maturation can bring sherry-like jam notes even to bourbon casks, this Imperial exhibited such nuances without being excessively aged, making it enjoyable. Although the price has increased slightly, as a bottle from a closed distillery, I believe it's worth purchasing.