Glen Moray 13 yo (2008/2021), McCallum – The Auld Alliance (Bourgogne finish), 46.5%

Introduction

Glen Moray 13-Year-Old “The Auld Alliance” is a testament to the historic relationship between Scotland and France, masterfully expressed through the marriage of Speyside whisky tradition and Burgundy wine excellence.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Premium Scottish barley harvested from the fertile fields surrounding Speyside, complemented by the pristine waters of the River Lossie.
• Distillation process: Double distilled in Glen Moray’s traditional copper pot stills, preserving the distillery’s characteristic light and fruity spirit character.
• Maturation: Initially matured in traditional oak casks before being finished in carefully selected Burgundy wine casks from France’s prestigious wine region.
• Special techniques: McCallum’s master blenders closely monitor the Burgundy finish, ensuring optimal wine influence without overwhelming the whisky’s inherent character.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Delicate notes of red berries, vanilla custard, and honey, with subtle hints of oak spice and poached pears.
• Palate: Rich and velvety with layers of red fruit compote, creamy toffee, and gentle spices. The Burgundy influence brings notes of dark cherries, plums, and a touch of polished oak.
• Finish: Medium to long with lingering notes of dried fruits, subtle wine tannins, and warm spices that gently fade to leave a pleasant, slightly dry oakiness.

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C) to fully appreciate the complex flavors.
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the aromas.
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water to open up the bouquet and reveal additional flavor nuances.
• Food pairings: Complements dark chocolate desserts, aged cheeses like Comté or Gruyère, or charcuterie featuring cured meats and dried fruits.

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 46.5% ABV
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Speyside
• Certifications/Awards: Part of McCallum’s prestigious “The Auld Alliance” collection, celebrating the historic connection between Scotland and France.

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Glen Moray 13-Year-Old “The Auld Alliance” represents a rare intersection of Scottish whisky craftsmanship and French wine excellence that few distilleries have mastered with such finesse.

With limited production runs and carefully selected Burgundy casks, this expression stands as a collector’s item that is increasingly difficult to obtain as supplies diminish.

Endorsed by whisky experts and sommeliers alike, this bottling demonstrates McCallum’s authority in creating innovative yet respectful interpretations of traditional single malts.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky enthusiasts worldwide have praised this expression for its balanced approach to wine cask finishing, acknowledging its place among the most successful Scottish-French whisky collaborations.

Many collectors who commit to “The Auld Alliance” series find themselves seeking out each release, recognizing the consistent quality and attention to detail McCallum brings to these special bottlings.

The growing community of wine-influenced whisky appreciators particularly celebrates this expression for its respectful integration of Burgundy characteristics without overwhelming the spirit’s fundamental identity.

From Glen Moray Distillery to You

By selecting this exceptional bottling, you’re invited to experience the culmination of both Scottish distilling heritage and French wine expertise that generations of craftspeople have perfected.

The approachable yet complex character of this whisky reflects the same warmth and sophistication found in the centuries-old friendship between Scotland and France that gives this series its name.

When you share this whisky with friends and fellow enthusiasts, you’re not just enjoying a fine spirit, but participating in the ongoing cultural exchange that has enriched both nations’ traditions since the 13th century.