Banff 21 Years Old Rare Malts Selection 57.1% Into Neck 1982

Professionele reviews

BOW (88)

Banff 21 Years Old Rare Malts Selection: A Glimpse into the Past

The Banff 21 Years Old Rare Malts Selection is a whisky that offers a fascinating journey into history and the world of Scotch whisky. Distilled in 1982 and bottled in April 2004 for the Rare Malts Selection series, this exceptional release showcases the complexity and character that only time can impart. However, it is important to note that due to its age, the closure on the bottle may have deteriorated, requiring careful handling when opening. As such, it is sold as described, acknowledging the vintage nature of the bottle.

Historical Legacy:

The story of Banff Distillery dates back to 1824 when the first distillery bearing the name "Banff" was established on Banff Bay in Inverboyndie. Over the years, ownership changed hands, and in 1863, a new distillery was built in the same location, benefiting from improved transport links and a reliable water source. Despite experiencing challenges such as fires and explosions, the distillery persevered, rebuilding and restoring operations.

Tragic Events and Resilience:

Banff Distillery faced significant setbacks throughout its history. In 1877, a devastating fire damaged or destroyed much of the distillery, leaving only the warehouse standing. However, determined to carry on, James Simpson Jr., the owner at the time, swiftly rebuilt the distillery and even kept a fire engine on-site for added safety measures.

The distillery's resilience was further tested during World War II when it was targeted by a Nazi aircraft, resulting in the destruction of Warehouse No. 12 and the loss of valuable whisky stock. Despite this setback, repairs commenced, and the distillery became the base for No. 248 Squadron RAF until the end of the war.

Challenges and Closure:

Banff Distillery encountered additional challenges in the post-war era. An explosion in 1959 destroyed one of the stills and damaged part of the distillery, leading to a fine for safety violations. However, renovations were completed, and the distillery resumed production until it was ultimately mothballed in 1983. Over time, the distillery's buildings were dismantled or demolished, and the final warehouse met a tragic fate in a fire in April 1991.

Operation and Distillation:

Banff Distillery employed various methods and technologies throughout its operation. In the early years, the stills were manually fed with coal until a mechanical delivery system was introduced in 1963. The distillery transitioned to oil burners for heating the stills in 1970. Cooling water was drawn from the Burn of Boydine, contributing to the production process.

Conclusion:

The Banff 21 Years Old Rare Malts Selection offers more than just a whisky experience—it provides a glimpse into the rich history and legacy of a distillery that faced numerous challenges yet remained resilient. With its unique vintage character, this release captures the essence of Banff Distillery's craftsmanship and the flavors developed during its 21 years of maturation. As you savor a glass of this rare expression, let it transport you back in time, celebrating the enduring spirit of Banff and its contribution to the world of Scotch whisky.