Watches And Whisky: Vacheron Constantin X Ladyburn
Vacheron Contanstin: The Traditionnelle Day-Date and Power Reserve has more to it than meets the eye, with pure aesthetics and a dial with understated appeal. The Traditionnelle Day-Date and Power Reserve model that now joins the prestigious Collection Excellence Platine is entirely in keeping with the aesthetic codes of all the models that have found their place in this collection since 2006.
The Traditionnelle Day-Date and Power Reserve features a classically sized 39.5 mm-diameter case and a crown crafted from 950 platinum. The uncluttered dial layout that is made of 950 platinum features a finely grained sandblasted finish, discreetly bearing the inscription “Pt 950” between 4 and 5 o’clock. The face provides a central display of the hours, minutes and seconds, as well as providing pointer-type indications of the power reserve, the date and the day of the week.
The strap in dark blue Mississippiensis alligator leather is hand-sewn with silk and 950 platinum thread. This combination is made possible by the remarkable malleability of this precious metal, of which a single gram can be drawn out to form an almost two kilometre-long thread. The folding clasp is also made of 950 platinum.
At its heart beats a mechanical self-winding movement developed and produced by Vacheron Constantin – Calibre 2474 – graced with the kind of meticulous finishes that are the unmistakable signature of Fine Watchmaking. The Traditionnelle Day-Date and Power Reserve, visually, looks simplistic but then features techniques that are only achievable by a true Haute Horlogerie brand that are only revealed upon deeper exploration. Then, and only then are its hidden qualities unveiled.
Ladyburn Whiskey This Lowland distillery probably has one of the most unique histories. The Ladyburn malt whisky distillery was created in 1966. However, in 1975 the distillery was closed and later demolished in 1976, making it one of the shortest-lived distilleries in Scotch whisky history. The Ladyburn was one of the most technological distilleries during its brief stint and like all distilleries Ladyburn has its characteristics – oily! This 40-year-old bottling exclusive to the Whisky Shop exudes some of the most exquisite notes I have ever experienced within a single bottle of Scotch.
Tasting Notes: On the nose: you’ll get a sweet and warming waft of marzipan, coupled with some bitter liquorice. These initial notes are then followed by those oily signature characteristics, along with some creamy notes, linseed oil, aloe vera and a hint of zest. Adding a touch of water reveals notes of Madeira cake, candyfloss and notes of a floral nature. On the palate: those sweet notes of marzipan on the nose are ever present. Under that creamy and oily texture are notes of vanilla and aniseed alongside some peppery spices. The palate is nicely finished with notes of herbs, sage, tamarind and the slightest hint of smoke. The finish: long, peppery, herby, with lingering oak.
The verdict: at first, the Ladyburn seems rather simple but as you delve deeper more and more notes start to emerge. It truly is a dram that has more than meets the eye. Due to the rather low ABV percentage, you’d be forgiven for thinking you don’t need to add any but to cut through those oils you’ll need to add just a few drops of water to allow the Scotch to breathe and unlock the plethora of flavours available.
Info: ABV 48.6% in a 70cl bottle
Photo Credit: Christopher Beccan. For more, please go and visit Chritopher Beccan’s official website, Bexsonn.
