1995 The Arran Malt Distillery Founder's Reserve Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Isle of Arran, Scotland

The Arran Malt “ Founders Reserve” 1995 5 Year Old Single Malt

An unusual bottle of whisky released to boost the funds of the shareholders at the Arran distillery in 2001. The isle of Arran is in the firth of Clyde on the western shores of Scotland, making brewing and distilling of high quality due to the shelter and clean water supplies. This dram reflects the style of the main Arran distillery products in that it is on the lighter, more soft style of malt with notes of sweet apples, and sweet malt. Includes original cardboard carton.

Overview Originally bottled exclusively for the distillery’s shareholders and bond holders, this expression from Arran is a collectible glimpse into the distillery’s early character. Despite its relatively young age of 5 years, it delivers a remarkable complexity that hints at the evolving style of Arran’s single malts. This limited-edition release is highly prized for its unique snapshot of the distillery’s developmental period.

Nose The aromatic profile is light and delicate, immediately inviting you into a world of soft, dessert-like nuances. At first whiff, you may notice hints of custard cream biscuits and the creamy allure of vanilla ice cream. These notes are artfully balanced with tropical fruit freshness, accentuated by a burst of lemon icing and subtle cereal nuances that add an unexpected brightness. The overall effect is both inviting and elegantly nuanced—a sensory prelude to the whisky’s deeper layers.

Palate Upon tasting, the whisky reveals an almost culinary quality reminiscent of white chocolate panna cotta. The palate is richly layered with spiced tropical fruit flavors—pineapple making a distinctive appearance—woven together with the comforting taste of custard Danish pastries. This dessert-inspired medley is underpinned by a gentle hint of vanillin oak, lending a smooth, creamy character that complements the fruit and spice. The balance between sweetness and spice is finely executed, creating a multifaceted experience that evolves with every sip.

Finish The finish is equally memorable, unfolding as a harmonious blend of buttery shortbread coupled with the lingering zest of pineapple chunks. Notes of vanilla custard and white chocolate gradually recede, leaving behind a trace of aromatic spices that echo the initial fruity and creamy tones. This extended, nuanced finish invites contemplation and a desire to savor another sip, encapsulating both the youthful vibrancy and the sophistication typical of Arran’s style.

Further Reflections Expressions like this one demonstrate how even a relatively young single malt can exhibit a rich tapestry of flavors—one that borders on the culinary and the artful. It’s fascinating to observe how Arran manages to infuse such liveliness into its whiskies, making them both a collector’s item and a compelling subject for tasting exploration.