Auld Alliance 17y

About

The Auld Alliance is a Singapore-based independent bottler named after the historic 1295 alliance between Scotland and France—a bond, legend has it, forged on shared love of French wine. Founder Emmanuel Dron opened the first Auld Alliance whisky bar at CHIJMES in 2010 and has since released nearly 70 single casks spanning whisky, rum, cognac, and calvados. This 17-year-old North British exemplifies the understated character of Lowland grain whisky: clean, grain-forward, and built for contemplation rather than spectacle. North British (established 1886) is one of Scotland's largest grain distilleries, prized for its clarity and refinement. Bottled at cask strength (56.1%), this expression retains the classic Lowland signature: generous vanilla and honey from the grain, layered with older wood notes and dried fruit. Seventeen years of maturation has added texture and weight without obscuring the spirit's fundamental lightness. Amber in colour. The nose opens with vanilla, honey, and a hint of walnut, with a faintly vinous edge that subtly echoes the French connection in the name. The palate delivers dried fruit, peppery heat, and a straw-like dryness—hallmarks of grain whisky at this age. The finish is warm and woody, with lingering pepper and a whisper of salt.

Flavour Profile