Old St. Andrews Whisky

Two weeks on and we’ve just about recovered from the frenzy that was the Old St. Andrews Whisky “tweet tasting”. We have described the process of a tweet tasting in a previous blog, so this blog will cover the virtues of four quite excellent drams from a fantastic producer and distributor of a great range of premium spirits; Old St. Andrews Whisky.

We were delivered the whisky for the tweet tasting and were surprised (very pleasantly) with the packaging; the small 5cl bottles were, in essence, glass golf balls complete with dimples. Unique, we’d say.

Old St. Andrews Whisky produce four malt whiskies; Clubhouse, Twilight, Fireside and Nightcap – each with a very distinctive character.

First on the tee at the tweet tasting was “Clubhouse”, a 3 year old bottled at 40%. This whisky is actually a blend of 5 year old whiskies. It is a nice, refreshing dram – rich and fruity. The finish is refreshing and there are definite spice notes prevailing.

Next up, was the Old St Andrews Whisky “Twilight”. This was a surprise for a 10 year old; very refreshing with almost a “pop” on the palate. Good body with great fruit notes, chocolate and lemon. It was matured in American white oak casks which gives it the distinctive, delicate flavours.

Then we had a swing at “Fireside”, a really nice 12 year old bottled at 40% and with some choice peaty notes.  This would not scare off peat virgins and is a good way to introduce yourself to the more earthy whiskies. The finish of this dram is multi layered and quite complex for a 12 year old. 

Lastly, we sampled “Nightcap” – a 15 year old bottled at 4o%. This dram has a great mouth feel – fulfilling and waxy. Matured in European Oak casks. For those of you old enough to remember, think of Cadbury’s “Old Jamaica” rum, raisin and chocolate bar and you’ll not be far off with this one’s finish.

Thanks go to Old St Andrews Whisky for supplying the drams for the night. Do go to the trouble of seeking out their products – they are an innovative company that work hard (with no little success!) at marketing and positioning their products. Great stuff.