Was graciously invited to a tasting event yesterday to introduce the new anCnoc 16YO to the Malaysian market. This is the replacement for their great 18YO expression. My thoughts on the 16YO which is now bottled at 43% ABV… First up, it’s a completely different drinking experience to the “retiring” 18 or the old 16YO (which was bottled at 46% ABV). This expression is fully ex-Bourbon cask matured. On the nose, it has the signature anCnoc lemon zest note. There is also some hints of vanilla and light floral honey. At first taste, lots of complexity and less of the honey sweetness that I associate with most anCnoc expressions. I was thinking this is a good wee dram for experienced drinkers. Then I added a little water and found that the drink opens up well. The honey sweetness blossoms and the layered flavours continue to hold. Some spice is present but generally, this is a delicate wee dram. Not “in your face” at all. The old 16 and the retiring 18 are both favourites of mine so this new 16 has a lot to live up to. At the moment, the 18YO is still my favourite but there is enough in this new 16 that I may grow to like this more with additional drinks. 😊 A delightful finish too. The lemon zest note and vanilla sweetness remain for a good length.

Posted by Whisky Dev at 2026-05-09 01:12:28 UTC