An Cnoc 16 Jahre

Overview: The anCnoc 16 year old at a glance

• Aged 16 years: Time for a balanced Highland Single Malt
• Highland tradition: Distilled at the Knockdhu Distillery
• Distinct style: Light, spicy, and pleasantly approachable
• Bourbon cask maturation: Aged in ex-American bourbon casks
• No-nonsense approach: Bottled at 46% ABV, non-chill filtered, and natural color

Portrait: What makes the anCnoc 16 year old special

Upon hearing the name "anCnoc," one might initially think: "Aha, so that’s the name of the distillery." But it isn't. The Knockdhu Distillery is the producer behind this single malt, and it is precisely this little detail that makes anCnoc interesting even before the first sip. The name "anCnoc" comes from the nearby Knock Hill and simply means "the hill" in Gaelic. Incidentally, it is pronounced "a-nock"—just in case you want to avoid any confusion during a whisky tasting evening.

Located in Banffshire in the Scottish Highlands, Knockdhu Distillery was founded by John Morrison back in 1894. The choice of location was astute: the surrounding area offered barley, peat, and clear springs—and the Great North of Scotland Railway provided a convenient transport link right on the doorstep. You could say the essential ingredients were all there; the rest was simply a matter of hard work.

The distillery has seen its fair share of history since then. Operations were initially suspended in 1931, followed by economically challenging times and the Second World War; at one point, the buildings were even used as army barracks. A new chapter finally began in 1988, when Knockdhu was acquired by Inver House Distillers.

Today, anCnoc 16 Year Old is part of the distillery’s whisky range. It is matured entirely in American bourbon casks and bottled at 46% ABV. It is also neither chill-filtered nor artificially colored. Consequently, the whisky may become slightly cloudy at low temperatures or when water is added—no cause for alarm, but rather a completely natural effect.

It is also interesting to note that much at Knockdhu has remained surprisingly traditional. The two copper stills still match the original design from 1894. At the same time, anCnoc presents itself as deliberately modern and uncomplicated.

The anCnoc 16 Year Old is thus a fine example of the brand's philosophy: traditional craftsmanship, an unusual name, and a whisky that doesn't take itself too seriously. Scottish tradition, in short—but with a playful wink.

Tasting Notes: This is how the anCnoc 16 year old tastes like

• Nose: Fresh citrus notes take center stage, accompanied by soft, sweet vanilla that creates a pleasant, rounded impression.
• Palate: On the palate, the anCnoc 16 Year Old feels light and pleasantly spicy. The flavors are well-balanced, making the whisky uncomplicated and approachable.
• Finish: The finish is long and elegant. The spiciness lingers, leaving you wanting another sip.