Although the Adelphi Distillery itself has long since disappeared, the Adelphi name was revived in 1993 by Jamie Walker, the grandson of Archibald Walker, who had owned it at the time of Barnard's visit. Adelphi Distillery Ltd is now an independent bottler of fine whiskies. We have included some of the Adelphi labels in recognition of the continuation of the name of what was once a very significant distillery in Glasgow. Bottled at 56.5% alcoholic strength under the historic Adelphi label. Not so obviously smoky as former casks: more medicinal (antiseptic cream, Elastoplast), although with resinous sap from a smouldering log, and sweet, tablet-like notes. In the mouth, it is sweeter than expected, with clean, medicinal flavours. Water continues the ‘doctor’s surgery’ imagery; perhaps an old-fashioned medicine cupboard or a freshly spread plaster-cast – clean and fresh and very Islay. The taste is still very sweet, with a thick mouthfeel, gherkins in vinegar, charcoal sticks and lingering smoke in the finish. As sophisticated as ever, with an added sweetness and complexity. A free download of the chapter on Adelphi Distillery is available when buying this whisky.
