Arran 10 Year Old is a whisky that is known for its natural coloring and non-chill filtration process. This means that it is not subjected to the common practice of chill filtration, which is used by many distilleries to remove impurities and cloudiness from the whisky. Instead, Arran 10 Year Old is bottled as it is, without any additional filtration that could potentially alter its flavor and mouthfeel.
Chill filtration is a process where the whisky is cooled down to near-freezing temperatures, causing certain compounds to solidify and be removed through filtration. This is done to prevent the whisky from becoming hazy or cloudy when served at lower temperatures or when ice is added. However, in the process, some of the natural oils, esters, and proteins that contribute to the whisky's flavor and texture may also be removed, resulting in a potentially less complex and vibrant spirit.
By choosing not to chill filter their whisky, Arran distillery aims to preserve the full flavor and character of their 10 Year Old expression. This decision is in line with the growing trend among whisky enthusiasts who appreciate the authenticity and natural qualities of a non-chill filtered whisky.
I personally appreciate the non-chill filtration approach taken by Arran for their 10 Year Old expression. It allows the whisky to retain its natural oils and flavors, resulting in a more robust and satisfying drinking experience. I find that non-chill filtered whiskies often exhibit a richer mouthfeel and a greater depth of flavors, with a more pronounced presence of the distillery's unique characteristics.
It's worth noting that the decision to chill filter or not can vary from distillery to distillery and even among different expressions from the same distillery. Some whisky enthusiasts prefer the clarity and visual appeal of a chill-filtered whisky, especially when serving it on the rocks or at lower temperatures. Others, like myself, enjoy the unadulterated nature of a non-chill filtered whisky, appreciating the full spectrum of flavors and textures it has to offer.
Arran 10 Year Old is not chill filtered, which allows it to showcase its natural colors and preserve the full range of flavors and textures. This decision by Arran distillery aligns with the preferences of those who seek a more authentic and unaltered whisky experience.