Cadenhead's "Enigma" 25 Year Old 1998 Blended Scotch Whisky

This 25-year-old expression from William Cadenhead Ltd. offers a deeply mature, refined blended Scotch whisky experience—well suited for contemplative sipping rather than casual drinking. With its understated yet rich profile, it delivers elegance and depth at an approachable strength.

Origins & Craftsmanship
Distilled in 1998 and bottled in September 2023, this release comes from Cadenhead’s independent bottling programme, which often sources rare casks and honours traditional craftsmanship. Though the exact components are undisclosed (“Enigma” reflecting the mystery of blend origins), the whisky was matured entirely in refill sherry butts and bottled at 41.4% ABV with no added colouring and without chill-filtration. The refill sherry cask maturation allows the spirit’s character to shine through while gaining gentle sherried nuance.

Tasting Profile

• Nose: Gentle yet intriguing. Aromas of walnuts, caramelised sugar, dried orchard fruits and church-pew leather show, followed by toffee, fudge-like richness and a faint trace of old wood.

• Palate: Smooth and layered. Flavours of chocolate-covered raisins, Madeira-cake sweetness, prune and strawberry-sauce hints appear alongside light oak tannin and a touch of sherbet-like tartness.

• Finish: Long and composed. Notes of mild cinnamon, chestnut, caramelised nut skin, and a whisper of oak dryness linger—finished with a subtle dryness tempered by matured sherry influence.

Quick Overview