Knockando distillery was founded in 1898 by John Thomson on the river Spey, and carries the distinction of being the first Speyside distillery to use electricity. Closed two years after its creation, it passed for a while into the hands of Gilbey Ltd, the famous London gin producers. After further takeovers and refurbishments, the distillery met with a resurgence in demand, it began marketing it's Single Malts as Vintages. Today, only 8% of the production is marketed under the Knockando label, the remaining part being used for the blends J&B and Spey Royal.
A pleasant smell dominated by the malt, featuring some hints of banana which announces a good Speyside whisky. The nose swells on the pure tones of the malt, which is embellished by a touch of spices and fresh grass. Very full on the palate with amber flavours and tropical sweetness. Smoky wood and bacony flavours with breadth of vanilla chunk and clearly a very nice whisky with refined depth. The malt dominates and the taste is tight, without complications. A mellow and waving finish that is clearly designed to invite further lashings and promises more delightful pleasure. An above average drinking malt.
