Caledonian 1987 – 34 Year Old – Cask #7823876 – Rare Auld

The Caledonian 1987 – 34 Year Old – Cask #7823876 – Rare Auld is a truly exceptional and highly collectible single grain Scotch whisky bottled by Duncan Taylor as part of its Rare Auld Grain independent series. This rare expression showcases the remarkable age potential of Caledonian Distillery spirit — a distillery that now stands silent — and delivers a sensory experience that transcends the conventional expectations of grain whisky.

Distilled in April 1987, just one year before the Caledonian Distillery closed its doors permanently, this whisky was drawn from single oak cask #7823876 after 34 years of patient maturation and bottled in August 2021 at 52.7% ABV (cask strength) with natural colour and no chill filtration — hallmarks of premium independent bottling practices that preserve the whisky’s authentic character.

Caledonian Distillery, founded in 1855, was one of Scotland’s foremost producers of grain whisky, historically supplying spirit for blends and pioneering early grain‑making techniques before its closure in the late 1980s. Bottlings from its remaining casks are now rare and highly prized because the distillery is no longer operational, making this 34‑year‑old a precious link to a heritage lost to consolidation and time.

Aromatic and Tasting Experience

On the nose, the Caledonian 34 Year Old is a testament to the rich evolution of grain whisky over decades. Classic notes of vanilla and creamy coconut present themselves early, accompanied by hints of ripe yellow plums and red toffee apples that bring a delightful fruitiness. Subtle accents of fresh oak sawdust, buttery lemon and delicate spices such as chopped coriander and tamarind weave through the aroma, creating complexity and intrigue.

The palate follows with a generous and harmonious flavour profile. Fruit elements persist with green apple, honeydew melon and pear, complemented by the gentle sweetness of spun sugar and honey. Soft wood‑influenced spice — including delicate pepper and coriander seed — adds dimension without overpowering the malt‑free spirit’s inherent silkiness. These layers of flavour demonstrate how long maturation can elevate a grain whisky beyond its lighter beginnings.

On the finish, this expression is long and satisfying, with warm echoes of poached pears, buttery apple pastries and a hint of herbal spice that lingers gently on the palate. The finish invites slow, contemplative sipping, making this whisky ideal for moments of relaxed enjoyment or premium tasting sessions.

Usage, Appreciation & Trust

The Caledonian 1987 – 34 Year Old is best appreciated neat in a tulip or Glencairn glass, allowing its nuanced aromatic profile to unfold gradually and its complex layering to reveal itself over time. It also serves as a reference point in comparative tasting flights, especially when exploring the evolution of grain whisky versus malt expressions aged to similar durations. Its rarity and craftsmanship make it a standout collector’s piece, prized by enthusiasts who seek historical depth and narrative alongside sensory richness.

Independent bottlers like Duncan Taylor are respected for their skilled cask selection and commitment to traditional whisky values — bottling at natural colour and cask strength with minimal intervention — which builds consumer confidence and underscores the authenticity of releases like this Rare Auld grain whisky.

In sum, the Caledonian 1987 – 34 Year Old – Cask #7823876 – Rare Auld is more than a whisky; it is a taste of lost distillery heritage and a remarkable example of how grain whisky can develop complexity, depth and elegance over long maturation. Whether enjoyed as part of a curated collection, a special‑occasion dram or a tasting exploration, this release rewards both connoisseurs and collectors with a rare and memorable experience.

2. Product Details Table