Ye Monks “A Curious Old Whisky” 1 Litre

1970s Ye Monks “A Curious Old Whisky” 1 Litre

A boxed normal shaped bottle of this "curious old whisky" blended by Donald Fisher, Edinburgh. Produced for the Spanish export market.

Overview Ye Monks “A Curious Old Whisky” is a blend with a rich heritage, originally produced by Donald Fisher Ltd. Its mystique as a “curious” whisky comes from decades of evolving identity—a whisky that has danced between various expressions and packaging styles. Today, it stands out for its eclectic nature and the numerous layers it offers, inviting both longtime enthusiasts and curious newcomers to explore its history in every sip.

Appearance Pouring into a glass, the whisky unfurls a beautiful honey-to-amber color, accented by a subtle greenish cast. This visual warmth hints at a complexity born of both age and the diverse cask influences that have shaped its character over the years.

Nose The aromatic profile is as multifaceted as the whisky’s backstory. At first, vibrant citrus notes—lime, grapefruit, and orange—brighten the senses, enlivening the nose with a burst of freshness. As the aroma develops, layers of dried fruits such as apricots and dates come to the forefront, melding seamlessly with richer, dessert-like nuances of honey, cocoa, and brown sugar. A touch of sweet pineapple adds an unexpected tropical twist, while a fleeting hint of oxidized red apple contributes a curious, almost antiquated character without dominating the overall harmony.

Palate On the palate, Ye Monks reveals its full complexity. It makes an immediate impression with a balanced, silky texture that coats the mouth invitingly. The flavor journey begins with a medley of sweet and slightly sour notes, where the initial citrus and dried fruit elements evolve into deeper layers of honey and cocoa. Amidst these flourishes, there’s a subtle umami undertone—with hints of metal and even a whisper of saltiness—that adds to the intricacy of the blend. As the whisky unfolds, a gentle smokiness emerges, providing a delicate counterpoint to the vibrant fruit and sweet spices.

Finish The finish proves to be both persistent and characterful. A boldly smoky aftertaste takes center stage, beautifully underscored by rustic notes of leather and a measured peatiness. This ending lingers long on the palate, inviting reflection and a slow, contemplative savoring of each subsequent sip. The interplay of the smoky, leathery finish with the earlier layers of sweetness and fruit creates an evolving experience from start to finish.

Reflections Ye Monks “A Curious Old Whisky” is a captivating example of how history and innovation converge in a blend. Its ability to harmonize vibrant citrus and dried fruits with a rich, smoky, and leathery finish sets it apart from more conventional expressions. This whisky not only invites you to explore its multifaceted flavor profile but also to appreciate the legacy embedded within every bottle—a blend that mirrors evolving tastes over generations.