A robust and entertaining blended scotch whisky using both malt and rye derived components in great balance. I suspect a portion of the sweetness here derives from the fresh bourbon cask too but this whisky hasn’t been in these casks long enough to become overtly vanillic. 83/100
A very sweet and dessert-like expression from Teaninich, still a touch spirity and feisty but this adds a little interest to the palate and to the overall enjoyment. 82/100
A cleaner expression which is still remarkably fruity with tonnes of apples and pears across the nose and palate. 84/100
Relatively easy going, everything is quite soft and smooth initially. There is that characteristic leafy green note to Fettercairn that seems much more integrated here than I remember previously, gets a little too spicy and drying at the end for me. 80/100
This whisky really is honey in a glass, it is quite hard to get away from those sweet honey notes. If you do you’ll find some well-incorporated fruits and substantial malt. Delicious! 84/100
Something about the caramel, nut and chocolate combination enhanced by a sprinkle of smoked sea salt adding that depth and richness means Bunnahbhain is so moreish for me. I still rate this as one of the best 12 year old whiskies.
Another raw and spirit-led Mortlach expression and again in the absence of serious cask-maturation I’m left underwhelmed by this one. 76/100
Lovely, gently smoky and coastal elements with lots of honeyed soft fruits too, the perfect introduction to Bowmore’s core range. 84/100
Very drinkable and more influenced by the red wine than the French oak cask maturation. 85/100
Intriguing on the nose but rather too spiced on the palate for my liking, thankfully not overtly sweet. 82/100
The Whiskyphiles 