XOP Carsebridge 46 Year Old 1976

XOP Carsebridge 46 Year Old 1976 is a profoundly rare and exceptionally well-aged single grain Scotch whisky from the long-closed Carsebridge distillery. Distilled in October 1976 (the Year of the Fire Dragon) and bottled in 2023 to celebrate the Year of the Wood Dragon, this expression was selected by the esteemed independent bottler Douglas Laing for their prestigious Xtra Old Particular (XOP) collection. Drawn from a single refill hogshead (Cask #17961) and bottled at a natural cask strength of 50.3% ABV without chill-filtration or added color, this ultra-limited release of just 156 bottles offers a remarkable and decadent glimpse into Lowland whisky history.

Food Pairing: The deep sweetness, toasted oak, and rich caramel notes of this heavily aged grain whisky pair magnificently with decadent desserts like crème brûlée, sticky toffee pudding, or pecan pie. It also serves as a beautiful companion to roasted nuts, mature hard cheeses like aged Gouda, or a mild, sweet cigar.

TASTING NOTES - A rich, brilliant mahogany hue. The texture is beautifully mature, syrupy, and elegant, carrying the undeniable depth and refinement of over four decades in oak.

NOSE - Deep and inviting, showcasing a distinct fired oak style layered with sweet vanilla, toasted marshmallows, and an elegant antique woodiness.

PALATE - Rich, sweet, and warming. It leads with waves of baking spices and warming allspice, followed by notes of honeyed cereal and a deeply decadent burnt caramel that coats the mouth.

FINISH - Exceptionally long, sweet, and lingering. The toasted marshmallow and burnt caramel notes gently fade, leaving a satisfying and warming oak spice.

SERVE - Best enjoyed neat in a Glencairn glass. Allow it to rest in the glass for several minutes to breathe, allowing the decades of complex maturation to fully reveal themselves.