North British 33 yo (1987/2021), Cooper’s Choice (#238570), 43.5%

Introduction

North British 33-year-old is a distinguished single grain whisky from one of Scotland’s largest grain distilleries, representing a rare opportunity to experience exceptionally well-matured grain whisky selected by independent bottler Cooper’s Choice.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Primarily wheat and a small portion of malted barley, sourced from Scottish farms, forming the foundation of this premium grain whisky
• Distillation process: Produced using continuous column distillation in the efficient Coffey stills at North British Distillery in Edinburgh, creating a lighter spirit with exceptional purity
• Maturation: Patiently aged for 33 years in ex-bourbon oak casks, allowing the spirit to develop richness and complexity while maintaining its elegant grain character
• Special techniques: Carefully selected as a single cask (#238570) by Cooper’s Choice, bottled at 43.5% without chill filtration to preserve its authentic character

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich aromas of ripe tree fruits, creamy vanilla custard, toffee, and subtle hints of exotic spices with a backdrop of polished oak
• Palate: Elegant and smooth with layers of honey sweetness, candied orange peel, butterscotch, and gentle oak spice, all delivered with the silky texture characteristic of well-aged grain whisky
• Finish: Long and satisfying with lingering notes of caramelized sugar, fading vanilla, and warming oak spices that gently diminish leaving a pleasant dryness

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (15-18°C) to fully appreciate its complexity
• Glass recommendation: Copita or Glencairn whisky glass to concentrate the delicate aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a small drop of spring water to open up the flavors; worthy of contemplative sipping on special occasions
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate with sea salt, aged cheeses like Comté, or simple butter shortbread to complement without overwhelming the whisky’s nuanced character

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 43.5% ABV
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Edinburgh
• Certifications/Awards: Cooper’s Choice selection, representing exceptional quality and character worthy of their independent bottling program

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This North British 33-year-old represents the pinnacle of grain whisky maturation, showcasing how grain spirit can develop extraordinary complexity when given sufficient time in quality casks.

With only 238 bottles drawn from cask #238570, this is a rapidly diminishing opportunity to taste a piece of North British Distillery’s heritage from the late 1980s.

Selected by Cooper’s Choice, renowned experts in identifying exceptional casks, this bottling carries the stamp of approval from one of Scotland’s most respected independent bottlers.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Discerning whisky enthusiasts and collectors specifically seek out well-aged North British expressions for their exceptional quality and distinctive character.

Adding this bottle to your collection represents a commitment to exploring the full spectrum of Scottish whisky craftsmanship beyond the more common single malts.

Well-aged grain whiskies have been increasingly celebrated by critics and connoisseurs who recognize their underappreciated complexity and elegance.

From Edinburgh’s Historic Distillery to You

North British Distillery has been providing the backbone for many famous blended whiskies since 1885, and now offers you the rare privilege of tasting their spirit in its purest, most mature form.

The approachable nature of this elegant grain whisky, with its smooth texture and balanced flavor profile, makes it an especially enjoyable dram for both special occasions and sharing with appreciated friends.

By choosing this bottle, you join a community of enlightened whisky enthusiasts who recognize that exceptional whisky experiences extend beyond single malts to include the often overlooked treasures of aged grain whisky.