Cardhu Gold Reserve "Game of Thrones" single malt whisky. + Tube.

Cardhu Gold Reserve Limited Edition "Game of Thrones" House Targaryen single malt whisky. with cardboard Tube.

Condition: New. Collector.
Fill level: New.

Whisky still produced: Yes.
Category: Single malt. 
Distillery: Still producing.
Bottler: Distillery Bottling
Bottling series: "Game of Thrones".
Vintage: 
Bottling Year: 01.05.2019.
Stated Age: Not stated.
Cask type: Not stated.
Strength: 40%vol.
Size: 700 ml.
Colouring: Yes.
Chill-filtered: Unknown.
Bottle code: 
Country Origin: Scotland.
Region: Speyside.
Market: Worldwide.

Cardhu Gold Reserve is fruitier and warmer than the classic 12 year old, its initial sweetness is cut by crisp orange zest followed by a subtle mineral dryness. Cardhu Gold Reserve is a great choice as a sweeter aperitif. This edition comes beautifully presented in limited edition "Game of Thrones" Tube, Cardhu Gold Reserve makes the perfect gift for any whisky lover and Game of Thrones fans alike. Cardhu comes from one of the oldest of the Speyside distilleries, which have nestled in foothills near the River Spey for 200 years and the Cardhu range is an excellent representation of these Speyside whiskies. Known for its smooth, sweet-natured single malt whisky, the history of Cardhu’s rise to fame is to a large part told in the story of two determined women who were members of the founding family.

Tasting notes;
Appearance/colour; Golden honey.
Nose; Sweet and warm with red apple skins, pears, barley sugar and marzipan.
Palate; Aromatic and sweet with orange and toffee. A mild, dry sharpness follows with notes of cedar and cocoa.
Finish: Warming, dry and peppery with hints of menthol, herbs, almonds and apples.

Distillery History:

Cardhu distillery – previously called Cardow – must be one of the best-located distilleries in Speyside: high on the hills on the north side of the Spey Valley with delightful views to the south. Though they take their name from the Gaelic for Black Rock, the malts of Cardhu have a warmth and cleanliness of taste, often described as silky, making them both elegant and approachable. Perfect for toasting, celebrating and sharing with old and new friends.
The Excise Act of 1824 marked the transformation of John and Helen Cummings’ cottage business into a well-respected local distillery – thanks largely to Helen’s business acumen and skill as a distiller. But it was the wife of Lewis, their son, who established the character and flavour of the malt we know today. Elizabeth Cummings took over the distillery in 1872 after the death of her husband and soon registered Car Dhu as a trademark. She grew production every year and, by 1884, larger premises were needed. With the construction of New Cardhu nearby, Elizabeth laid the foundations for a whisky of global renown.

Cardhu is a historic Speyside distillery that has played a foundational role in both single malt production and the development of blended Scotch whiskies—particularly Johnnie Walker. Known for its smooth, honeyed character, Cardhu is one of the most respected names in Speyside whisky.

Origins & Founding

Founded: 1824

Location: Knockando, Speyside, Scotland

Founders: John and Helen Cumming

Cardhu was originally established as Cardow in 1824 by John Cumming, a former whisky smuggler, shortly after the Excise Act made legal distillation more viable. It is one of the few distilleries where a woman played a central role in its early success—Helen Cumming famously ran the stills and sold whisky to travelers while keeping watch for excisemen.

A Woman-Led Legacy

Helen Cumming’s contribution was legendary. When excise officers would approach, she would quickly hide the equipment and even invite them in for tea while warning neighboring distillers of their approach by raising a red flag. After John passed away, their daughter-in-law Elizabeth Cumming took over in the late 1800s and was instrumental in expanding the distillery.

Link to Johnnie Walker

In 1893, Elizabeth sold the distillery to John Walker & Sons, primarily to supply malt for their rapidly growing Johnnie Walker blends. Cardhu became a cornerstone malt for the brand, contributing to the core character of Johnnie Walker Black Label and other expressions.

Modernization & Production

• The original distillery was completely rebuilt in 1885 on a new site to expand capacity.

• The old buildings were sold to William Grant, who used them to start what would become Glenfiddich Distillery.

• Cardhu was renamed from Cardow to Cardhu (Gaelic for "black rock") in 1981.

• It remains under the ownership of Diageo, who have preserved its status as a flagship single malt brand.

Signature Style

Cardhu is celebrated for its:

• Smooth, honeyed profile

• Notes of orchard fruits, malt, and gentle spice

• Approachable and elegant palate, making it a great “gateway” Speyside malt

Notable Releases

• Cardhu 12 Year Old – flagship single malt with notes of toffee, apple, and spice.

• Cardhu Gold Reserve – richer, with more vanilla and oak.

• Cardhu 18 Year Old – deeper, more mature expression with honey and dried fruit complexity.

• Rare by Nature Editions – part of Diageo’s Special Releases, showcasing unique cask strengths or finishes.

Legacy

Cardhu holds the distinction of being one of the few distilleries founded and shaped by women, and it continues to thrive as a key malt in both blends and single malt markets. Its elegant style, historical relevance, and contribution to global whisky culture make it a true gem of Speyside.

© copyright, Tasting World Ltd. England.