Edradour Ballechin 2004/2023 Madeira Cask 19 years old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 53.5%

Two Madeira casks, 19 years of patience and Ballechin's insistent peat — the result is a whisky that feels both sun-warmed and smoky at once.

The expert's description

Edradour Ballechin 2004/2023 Madeira Cask 19 years old is a Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in Madeira puncheons and bottled at 53.5%.

The whisky was distilled in April 2004 and matured for 19 years across two Madeira puncheons, cask no. 184 and 189, before being bottled in July 2023. The Madeira's characteristic, lightly oxidised sweetness has melted into Ballechin's peat smoke, creating a whisky with both sun-ripened fruit character and earthy smoke. Only 1,323 bottles were drawn.

Tasting notes

Nose

Dried apricot and caramelised sugar meet an earthy, faintly medicinal smoke, with a hint of toasted nuts underneath.

Palate

Sweet and full-bodied with raisin, burnt sugar and walnut, before a warm, lingering peat smoke takes over.

Finish

Long, with notes of dried fig, soot and a fine, bitter cocoa tone.

Specifications

Name: Edradour Ballechin 2004/2023 Madeira Cask 19 years old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 53.5%
Distillery: Edradour Ballechin
Region/Country: Highland, Scotland
Type: Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Age: 19 years
ABV: 53,5 %
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Madeira puncheons (cask no. 184 and 189)
Non-chill filtered: Yes
Natural colour: Yes
Distillation method: Double distilled
Distilled: April 2004
Bottled: 05/07/2023
Number of bottles: Only 1,323 bottles
EAN no.: 5021944123599

Flavour profile

Peated · Sherry-matured · Fruity

Investment potential

This release is assessed to have medium investment potential, largely due to 19 years of maturation on just two Madeira casks and a limited bottle count. This is a general assessment based on available information about rarity and demand, not a guarantee of future value growth.

Did you know?

Madeira casks were historically popular for whisky maturation because the fortified wine from Madeira held up well during long sea voyages — a tradition that today lives on as a sought-after but rare cask type.

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Frequently asked questions about Edradour Ballechin 19 yo Madeira Cask

How does a Madeira cask affect the flavour of a peated whisky like Ballechin?

The Madeira's oxidised sweetness and dried fruit character sit like a warm layer over Ballechin's earthy peat, creating a balance between sweetness and smoke.

How rare is this release?

Very — only 1,323 bottles were drawn from two single Madeira puncheons.

What's the difference between Madeira and port casks in whisky?

Madeira typically gives a drier, nuttier sweetness, while port often gives a more berry-driven, reddish character.

Is this whisky good as a gift for a collector?

Yes, the combination of 19 years of maturation, a rare cask type and a low bottle count makes it a strong choice.

Should it be served after a meal?

It works well as a digestif thanks to its body and smoky finish.

How strong is the smoke compared to other Ballechin releases?

The smoke is present and clear, but the Madeira's sweetness softens it, making it feel rounder than the younger, rawer Ballechin releases.