North British 25 yo (1991/2017), Bartels, 49.2%

Introduction

North British 25 yo is a distinguished single grain whisky from one of Scotland’s most respected grain distilleries, representing a quarter century of careful maturation and the pinnacle of grain whisky craftsmanship.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Primarily wheat and malted barley, sourced from Scottish farms, creating the foundation for this refined grain spirit
• Distillation process: Produced in North British’s Coffey stills, which allow for continuous distillation resulting in a lighter, cleaner spirit compared to pot still whiskies
• Maturation: Aged for 25 years in selected oak casks, allowing the spirit to develop complexity while maintaining the elegant character of grain whisky
• Special techniques: Bottled by independent bottler Bartels as part of their “His Excellency” series, without chill filtration to preserve the whisky’s natural flavors and oils

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Elegant notes of vanilla custard, coconut shavings, and butterscotch, with hints of polished oak and subtle tropical fruits
• Palate: Smooth and velvety with toffee, caramelized sugar, and gentle spices balanced by coconut cream and ripe banana, complemented by a honeyed sweetness
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering notes of oak spice, vanilla, and a touch of dark chocolate, fading to a pleasant dryness

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C) to fully appreciate its complex character
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped nosing glass or Glencairn whisky glass to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its complexity, though a few drops of still water can release additional aromatic compounds
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate desserts, crème brûlée, or aged cheeses that complement the whisky’s sweet and spicy notes

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 49.2% ABV
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Lowlands
• Certifications/Awards: Part of the prestigious “His Excellency” collection from Bartels, recognized for selecting exceptional casks

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This North British 25-year-old single grain whisky represents a rare opportunity to experience a quarter-century of meticulous maturation from one of Scotland’s most respected grain distilleries.

With extremely limited quantities available and dwindling stocks of well-aged North British releases, this 1991 vintage bottling has become increasingly difficult to obtain for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Revered whisky experts consider well-aged North British expressions to be among the finest examples of grain whisky production, demonstrating how extended maturation can transform grain whisky into something truly exceptional.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Single grain aficionados consistently praise aged North British expressions for their exceptional quality and value compared to similarly aged single malts, with this 25-year-old bottling being no exception.

Collectors who have committed to Bartels bottlings recognize their consistent quality selection and careful cask management, making this bottle a natural addition to any serious whisky collection.

The “His Excellency” series has garnered respect among whisky circles for showcasing the finest aspects of Scotland’s distilleries, with this North British bottling standing as a testament to grain whisky’s underappreciated complexity.

From North British Distillery to You

By selecting this exceptional bottling, you’re experiencing the culmination of multiple generations of distilling expertise at North British, where time-honored traditions meet modern precision.

The approachable yet complex character of this whisky appeals to both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts, offering a versatile and rewarding drinking experience that reveals new dimensions with each tasting.

Join the growing community of grain whisky advocates who appreciate North British’s distinctive character and become part of the movement recognizing these hidden gems of Scotch whisky – secure your bottle of this limited 1991 vintage today.