Thompson Brothers Whisky Sample Speyside 2001 20 Year Old 2021 Release (30ml, 45%)

Thompson Brothers Whisky Sample Speyside 2001 20 Year Old 2021 Release (30ml, 45%)

Rumour spooned Macallan selected and bottled by the Thompson brothers, this 20-year-old expression from the 2001 vintage is a masterclass in patient sherry cask aging. Presenting at a natural strength of 45% ABV, this non-chill filtered single/blended malt bypasses all artificial shortcuts, relying purely on two decades of interaction between fine Scottish malt spirit and active sherry wood. It opens up with an old-fashioned, deeply atmospheric array of dark fruits, antique library leather, and unctuous dark chocolate.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Intensely evocative, dark, and sophisticated. It opens with rich aromas of stewed figs, Medjool dates, and blackberry reduction, followed by vintage leather, pipe tobacco, and antique mahogany furniture. A gentle waft of dried orange peel, dark cocoa, and warming nutmeg lingers in the background.

Palate: Unctuous, rounded, and wonderfully soft at 45% ABV. Waves of sherried Christmas cake, dark treacle, and caramelized raisins coat the mouth, seamlessly integrating with peppery oak spice, candied ginger, and a subtle earthy rancio.

Finish: Long, elegant, and beautifully dry. The rich sweetness slowly transitions into lingering notes of dark chocolate truffles, espresso bean, drying oak tannins, and a hint of waxy citrus oil.

Why this bottle is special: 

It deliver a rare, nostalgic profile that feels like stepping back into the golden era of 20th-century sherry-matured Scotch whisky.