Auld Alliance & Ad Astra 1997 Ben Nevis 26 Year Old Single Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky

The Auld Alliance & Ad Astra 1997 Ben Nevis 26 Year Old Single Cask Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a remarkable Highland release distilled in 1997 and matured for 26 years before bottling in 2024. Drawn from a single refill barrel and bottled at natural cask strength, this rare expression captures the robust and waxy spirit character that has made Ben Nevis one of the most sought-after cult distilleries among whisky enthusiasts worldwide. With only 259 bottles produced, this is an exceptionally limited independent bottling created exclusively for Auld Alliance & Ad Astra.

Distillery: Ben Nevis Distillery
Bottler: The Auld Alliance
Bottled For: Ad Astra & The Auld Alliance & Lucky Choice
Age: 26 Years Old
ABV: 52.2%
Cask Type: Refill PX Sherry Hogshead
Cask Number: 2316301
Vintage: 1997
Outturn: 259 Bottles

This bottling was released as part of a collaborative independent bottling project between The Auld Alliance and Ad Astra, both recognised within the whisky community for selecting rare and character-driven single cask Scotch whiskies. The label series focuses on showcasing mature spirits from iconic distilleries while combining collectible presentation with limited availability for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Tasting Notes:
The aroma opens rich and deeply fruity with layers of sweet earthy brown sugar draped over fresh slices of juicy apple. A luxurious creaminess develops alongside notes of stewed plums, prunes, raisins and figs, gradually evolving into classic sherried characteristics of black tea and dried fruits.

The palate arrives with impressive intensity, immediately evoking the richness of Cream Sherry. Medium-bodied yet deeply expressive, flavours of leather and warming baking spices unfold over a foundation of spiced apples, plum pie and baked apple tart. Bright floral tea notes lift the profile while gentle oak tannins and touches of rancio emerge, bringing dried sour plums, sarsaparilla and cola syrup with a slightly medicinal complexity in the background.

The finish is long, layered and evolving, with the rancio character persisting beautifully alongside mulled wine sweetness, stewed prunes and dark plum richness. As the whisky fades, brighter orchard fruits of pear and apple return, balanced by delicate oak dryness and lingering baking spice, creating a refined and exceptionally mature Ben Nevis experience.