The first note in Tomatin’s ambitious French Collection is anything but shy. Edition 1 The Monbazillac Cask brings together Highland craftsmanship and the luscious sweetness of one of France’s most prized dessert wines. Monbazillac, often called the hidden gem of sweet wines, infuses this single malt with exotic richness and silky depth, setting the tone for a series that redefines cask finishing with bold, elegant flair.
Tomatin French Collection: Edition 1 of 4 – The Monbazillac Cask (Limited Edition)
Brand: Tomatin | Category: Highland Single Malt | ABV: 46% | Origin: Highlands, Scotland | Vol: 70cl
Tasting Profile:
Nose: Vibrant and inviting, floral honey, candied orange peel, apricot jam, and a touch of vanilla pod. A sweet, sun warmed orchard in the glass.
Palate: Rich, rounded, and smooth, baked apple, golden sultanas, citrus drizzle cake, and subtle ginger spice. It’s decadent without being cloying.
Finish: Medium to long, mellow waves of honeycomb, dried fruit, and a soft oaky glow that lingers gently.
Production Details:
Distilled in 2008 and matured in traditional Scotch oak casks before being finished in Monbazillac wine casks from southwest France. These wines are made from late-harvest grapes affected by noble rot, concentrating their sugars and floral sweetness, which imparts a rare depth when used in whisky casks. Bottled non-chill filtered and at 46% for maximum character.
Perfect For:
A dessert dram for golden evenings, best enjoyed after dinner with good company or a slice of tarte tatin. Perfect for those who like their whisky silky, complex, and slightly indulgent.
Expert Notes:
The Monbazillac Cask surprised even seasoned drinkers with its poise, a sweet wine finish that complements rather than overwhelms. Critics praised it for its honeyed charm and graceful execution, calling it “a confident start to an adventurous series.”
Customer Reviews:
🗣️ “This dram changed how I feel about sweet finishes, rich but balanced. Total sleeper hit.”
🗣️ “Soft, fruity, and just a little wild. One of the best Tomatins I’ve had in years.”
🗣️ “I didn’t even know what Monbazillac was… now I want more whiskies like this!”
Interesting Fact:
Monbazillac is produced in the Dordogne region and often uses the same grape varieties as Sauternes but with a slightly spicier, more aromatic edge. That makes its casks a rare treat in whisky finishing.
Serving Suggestions:
Sip neat to appreciate the interplay of fruit and honey. A few drops of water will open up even more citrus and floral notes. Beautiful alongside soft cheeses, almond pastries, or dried figs.
