anCnoc (pronounced a-NOCK), a Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky produced at the Knockdhu Distillery, announced the launch into the U.S. market of Cutter — the third expression in its Limited Edition Peaty Collection.
The new release follows Rutter and Flaughter, the first two expressions within the range, which were released last year and are between 11 to 15 parts per million phenol. Cutter is the most intense expression within the range, at 20.5 parts per million phenol.
When Knockdhu Distillery was established in 1894, peat was commonly used as a source of fuel throughout the Highlands. The makers of anCnoc believe that whisky made at the distillery was undoubtedly peaty at the time, but over the years evolved to present-day unpeated style that the Highlands are now known for. The Limited Edition Peaty Collection serves as a nod to this forgotten historical note, according to a press release, including Cutter.
Named for a hand tool used to cut peat from less wet, shallower bogs, Cutter is unmistakably peaty, according to the company, with thick and oily smoke structure followed by fruitiness, ripe peaches and just a touch of oak on the nose. On the palate, Cutter reveals notes of slight apple-core bitterness, leather and spicy vanilla. Sharper notes of pink grapefruit and ripe orchard fruits are also present.
The whisky was matured in American oak, ex-bourbon casks and bottled at 46 percent ABV and contains 20.5 PPM phenol. The suggested retail price is $85.
