Invergordon 1988 – 34 Year Old – Statement 46 – Blackadder Raw Cask

 

The Invergordon 1988 – 34 Year Old – Statement 46 – Blackadder Raw Cask is an exceptional and highly collectible single grain Scotch whisky that exemplifies the hidden potential and elegance of well‑aged grain spirit. Distilled in February 1988 at the historic Invergordon Distillery in the Highlands of Scotland, this whisky spent 34 years maturing in a single hogshead cask before being hand‑selected and independently bottled by Blackadder International in their celebrated Raw Cask – Statement series.

Invergordon has long been one of Scotland’s major producers of grain whisky, primarily supplying spirit for blends. However, rare single‑cask releases like this are testament to the depth and complexity that grain whisky can develop when afforded extended maturation. The Statement series is reserved for exceptional casks that demonstrate extraordinary character, and this Statement 46 edition is a standout example of that philosophy.

What this product is: at its heart, this is a single grain Scotch whisky distilled from continuous column stills, typical of the grain whisky style, which is then matured for decades to soften and enrich the spirit. The Raw Cask approach means this whisky is bottled at cask strength and un‑chill‑filtered, with no added colour, preserving all the natural oils, flavours and even some light cask residues from the barrel itself — a truly authentic expression straight from wood to bottle.

Nose and Aromatics

Upon nosing, this Invergordon 34 Year Old presents a warm and layered aromatic profile. Expect gentle notes of vanilla bean, crème brûlée and toffee weaving with hints of coconut and banana, accompanied by subtle oak spice and a touch of honeyed sweetness. These aromas reflect the interplay between the original grain spirit and the slow extraction of oak influences acquired over more than three decades.

Palate and Flavour Profile

On the palate, the whisky unfolds with a silky‑smooth texture that is both rich and balanced. Flavours of sugar‑sweet toffee and creamy vanilla are joined by undertones of tropical fruit, notably ripened banana and pineapple, while gentle spice and oak create depth and complexity. The classic grain base provides a subtle cereal character that enhances the overall harmony without overwhelming the senses, making this whisky approachable yet intriguingly complex.

Finish

The finish is elegant and lingering, with gentle echoes of honeyed sweetness and refined oak spice that fade gracefully. This lasting warmth is a hallmark of long‑aged grain whisky, offering a satisfying and contemplative conclusion — ideal for slow sipping or for highlighting in structured tasting flights that contrast grain and malt Scotch.

Usage Areas & Value

This Invergordon 1988 – Statement 46 is both a drinking experience and a research reference. Its unique maturation and Raw Cask presentation make it an excellent benchmark for understanding how grain whisky evolves when left to mature far beyond typical commercial age statements. For enthusiasts exploring the spectrum of Scotch whisky styles, especially those interested in how extensive wood interaction shapes flavour, this expression provides a compelling case study. Its rarity also gives it strong appeal as a premium collectible and gift whisky for serious collectors and connoisseurs.

Only 269 bottles were made available worldwide, underscoring its exclusivity and collectible significance. Expressions like this not only celebrate the craftsmanship of independent bottlers like Blackadder but also elevate grain whisky into the sphere of luxury spirits historically dominated by older malt releases.

Consumer Trust and Satisfaction

Blackadder’s Raw Cask – Statement series is widely respected among whisky lovers for its authenticity and commitment to natural whisky presentation — authentic cask strength, no chill filtration and zero colour addition. These practices resonate with purists and collectors alike, building trust that what you experience in the glass is a faithful representation of the spirit’s cask maturation journey.

In summary, the Invergordon 1988 – 34 Year Old – Statement 46 – Blackadder Raw Cask is a rare single grain Scotch that embodies depth, finesse and narrative richness. Its aromatic complexity, layered palate and enduring finish reflect over three decades of thoughtful ageing — making it a standout expression in any premium whisky collection or tasting lineup.

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